Australia vice-captain breaks silence on estranged wife's cheating allegations, says 'sorry for the pain this has caused'

Australia women’s cricket team vice-captain and all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner shared a message on social media, responding to her estranged wife, Monica Wright’s allegations after a report was published by Daily Mail. Gardner has thanked Cricket Australia for backing her as vice-captain and support during the tough times. She apologised to Monica for the pain she caused. She further asked for privacy and said that she won't make any more public comments on the personal matter.

“I am grateful for the time Monica and I share and sorry for the pain this has caused. I wish her nothing but happiness and success in the future,” Gardner posted on social media. 

“I won't be making any further public comment on this matter at this time and ask that the privacy of those involved is respected.”

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Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has also extended his support to Gardner. On the opening day of the men's Test between Australia and Bangladesh in Darwin, Greenberg said that it is a 'personal matter'. He also ruled out the possibility of conflict of interest in terms of selection as Gardner is in the leadership group.

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Previous month, a report was published in Daily Mail where details of the fallout were published. The report claimed that the cracks in the relationship surfaced during the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on Indian soil.  Monica chose to respond and posted the photo of 22-year-old opener Georgia Voll with captain: "This is who my wife cheated on me with...".

Gardner powers Trent Rockets to The Hundred Final

Gardner is currently leading Trent Rockets in The Hundred Women's Competition 2026. Trent Rockets are placed at the top as they have qualified for the final. Gardner will be seen in action on August 16 in the final at Lord's, London. Trent Rockets will go up against the winner of the Eliminator between Sunrisers Leeds and Southern Brave.

Gardner is Trent Rockers' second-highest wicket-taker in the season. From eight games, she has taken 10 wickets at an average of 19.80, including a four-fer against Manchester Super Giants. Wit the bat, she has contributed with 98 runs from six innings at a strike rate of 132.43. Her highest of a 25-ball 37 came against Southern Brave on August 10.

What’s next for Ash Gardner in 2026?

In October, Australia are set to face Bangladesh at home in a three-ODI series. Then, they play a T20I series at home against the White Ferns. It will be followed by the Women's Big Bash League (BBL) 2026.