WPL 2026: Gujarat Giants Retain Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney
Adani Sportsline-owned Gujarat Giants have confirmed the retention of Australian cricketers Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney ahead of the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) mega auction. Head coach Michael Klinger emphasized that both players embody the team's competitive spirit and vision.
Performance in WPL 2025
Ashleigh Gardner, who captained Gujarat Giants in the 2025 season, accumulated 243 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 164, including 18 sixes—the highest by any player in the tournament. She also took eight wickets, maintaining an economy rate of eight.
Beth Mooney followed with an impressive 237 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 128, recording two half-centuries during the same season.
"We played an exciting brand of cricket last season, and while parting ways with some players is always tough, it's part of the league's evolution. We've retained two strong players who reflect our playing ethos, and we're eager to add fresh energy at the auction to take the team forward," said head coach Michael Klinger.
Financial Details and Future Plans
Gardner and Mooney have been retained for INR 3.5 crore and INR 2.5 crore respectively, following the franchise's maiden playoff appearance in WPL 2025. The team will look to fill 16 remaining slots at the upcoming mega auction scheduled in New Delhi later this month.
"With the first-ever mega auction for the WPL, we are entering an exciting new phase for women's cricket."
Author’s Summary
The Gujarat Giants reaffirm confidence in their Australian core, aiming to build momentum from their 2025 playoff breakthrough as they prepare for a fresh 2026 WPL campaign.