DUBAI: Ash Gardner (Australia), Australia’s star all-rounder, who has previously claimed the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award on four occasions, finds herself once again in contention for the prestigious title. Following her participation in the WPL campaign, Gardner showcased her prowess in Australia’s ODI series against Bangladesh later in the month.
Throughout the series, she exhibited exceptional skills, securing eight crucial wickets at an impressive average of 8.62, while also contributing significantly with the bat, scoring 52 runs. Notably, in the first ODI, she played a crucial innings of 32 runs, aiding Australia to reach a formidable total of 213 on a challenging pitch in Mirpur.
Additionally, Gardner delivered a stellar bowling performance, claiming figures of 3/22, which greatly contributed to Australia’s convincing victory. Her impactful performances continued throughout the series, culminating in Australia’s comprehensive clean sweep against the Asian side, with Gardner rightfully earning the accolade of Player of the Series for her outstanding contributions.
Maia Bouchier (England)
The recent shift of the middle-order batter to the top of the lineup has proven highly fruitful. This was notably evident in the just-concluded T20I series against New Zealand, where Bouchier excelled, topping the scoring charts with 223 runs at an impressive average of 55.75.
Her standout performance came in the fourth T20I, where she achieved her personal best score of 91. This remarkable innings comprised 12 boundaries and two maximums, contributing significantly to England’s total of 177. Despite appearing poised for a century, she was dismissed by Amelia Kerr. Nonetheless, her innings marked the highest score by a visiting player in a women’s T20I against New Zealand on their home soil.
Bouchier’s contribution proved pivotal as it propelled England to a decisive victory, securing an insurmountable lead in the series. Her consistent presence at the top of the order laid a strong foundation for England’s success throughout the series, ultimately earning her the prestigious Player of the Series award in recognition of her outstanding performance.
Amelia Kerr (New Zealand)
Amelia Kerr, the talented all-rounder from New Zealand, clinched the Player of the Month award back in February 2022 and is determined to replicate that achievement once again. Displaying exceptional performance in the recent series against England, Kerr emerged as one of the top three run-scorers, accumulating 114 runs from four innings. Additionally, she showcased her prowess with the ball, claiming six wickets in four games, positioning herself as the second-highest wicket-taker. Despite New Zealand’s 4-1 series loss, Kerr’s contributions shone brightly for the hosts. Notably, her resilient unbeaten knock of 44* in the third T20I in Nelson, coupled with a commendable bowling performance of 1/29, significantly contributed to the White Ferns’ solitary victory in the series.
