Ahead of the upcoming edition of WBBL, Sydney Sixers are on the brink of a significant transition, with Ellyse Perry handing over the captaincy to her long-time teammate and the team's cornerstone, Ashleigh Gardner. Under Ellyse Perry, who has been at the helm for a decade, the Sixers clinched two titles. However, in the past two seasons, the side hasn't been able to make comprehensive gains, failing to qualify for the final.
Sydney Sixers General Manager Rachel Haynes expressed her happiness over Gardner's appointment.
"Ash has grown immensely as a leader; she’s a phenomenal player and will be instrumental in the future success of the club. I am delighted to see her take on the captaincy this season,” Haynes said.
Gardner also expressed her joy at being appointed the team's captain.
"I'm honoured to be appointed captain of the Sydney Sixers, a club I’ve proudly represented for my whole career. Over the past decade I’ve learned from some amazing leaders, including Pez (Ellyse Perry) and Midge (Alyssa Healy) at the Sixers, and I can’t wait to lead the team in WBBL 11," Gardner said.
Gardner has played 135 matches for the Sydney Sixers, scoring 2,607 runs and taking 102 wickets.