Australia has suffered a blow in their T20 series against New Zealand, with all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner ruled out due to injury. Cricket Australia confirmed that Gardner fractured her right index finger during the first T20I in Auckland. This development has significant implications for online cricket betting, as bettors adjust their strategies with Australia’s squad changes.
Ashleigh Gardner Ruled Out of New Zealand T20Is
Gardner sustained the injury while attempting a return catch off her own bowling in the 17th over. The ball, struck powerfully by Sophie Devine, forced her to leave the field immediately. Despite Australia’s dominant top-order performance, which meant Gardner wasn’t required to bat, the injury will keep her sidelined for the remainder of the tour. She is set to undergo further scans and specialist consultation in Sydney.
Her absence is crucial for online cricket betting fans who rely on her all-round capabilities. With Gardner out, Australia has brought in uncapped all-rounder Charli Knott, who is set to make her international debut in the second T20I on March 23.
Charli Knott’s Call-Up: A Fresh Betting Angle
Knott, a 22-year-old Queenslander, has been in stellar domestic form. She scored 542 runs and took 12 wickets in the Women’s National Cricket League (2024-25 season) and continued her form in the Women’s Big Bash League, contributing 187 runs and six wickets for Brisbane Heat.
Her inclusion presents an intriguing aspect for online cricket betting. Punters will be keen to see how Knott adapts to the international stage and whether she can make an immediate impact.
Updated Australian T20 Squad:
- Tahlia McGrath (c)
- Darcie Brown
- Nicole Faltum
- Kim Garth
- Grace Harris
- Alana King
- Charli Knott
- Phoebe Litchfield
- Beth Mooney
- Ellyse Perry
- Megan Schutt
- Annabel Sutherland
- Georgia Voll
- Georgia Wareham
Australia’s Dominance in the First T20I
Australia made an emphatic start to the series, chasing down New Zealand’s 137/2 in just 13.3 overs. New Zealand’s innings was anchored by Melie Kerr, who scored an unbeaten 51 off 46 balls, and Sophie Devine’s 39. However, they struggled to accelerate during the middle overs, allowing Australia to take control.
Beth Mooney (75*) and Georgia Voll (50) dominated the chase with a 123-run opening partnership off just 66 balls. This performance reinforced Australia’s strength, making them strong favorites in online cricket betting markets for the next matches.
Betting Implications and Odds on 12BET
With Gardner sidelined, bettors will look at Australia’s lineup adjustments. Mooney and Voll’s aggressive batting makes them top contenders for leading run-scorer bets. Knott’s all-round skills could offer value in player performance markets.
For those engaged in online cricket betting, platforms like 12BET offer competitive odds on match results, player performances, and live betting options. With Australia’s form and New Zealand looking to bounce back, the next T20I promises exciting wagering opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s loss of Ashleigh Gardner shakes up their squad, but their commanding win in the first T20I signals strong depth. Online cricket betting enthusiasts will need to reassess their strategies, factoring in Knott’s debut and the team’s batting firepower. Keep an eye on 12BET for the latest odds and betting options as the series unfolds.