Australia still world’s best women’s team, says Ashleigh Gardner

Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has asserted that her side remain the best team in women’s cricket despite losing their T20 and ODI World Cup crowns, expressing confidence ahead of the much-anticipated series against India in February.

Gardner acknowledged that Australia’s recent setbacks at global tournaments had placed the team under unfamiliar pressure, but said the experience would only strengthen them going forward. Speaking to cricket.com.au, she maintained that the team’s overall quality, depth and consistency still set them apart on the world stage.

“We’ve certainly been put under pressure recently. But I can still sit here confidently saying that we’re the best team in the world,” Gardner said.

Australia, long considered the dominant force in women’s cricket, suffered rare disappointments in the recent T20 and ODI World Cups, prompting questions about their supremacy. However, Gardner believes the challenges have provided valuable lessons rather than signaling a decline.

With India scheduled to tour Australia in February, Gardner said the series presents an ideal opportunity for the team to reassert themselves. The rivalry between the two sides has intensified in recent years, with India emerging as one of the strongest competitors in the women’s game.

Gardner added that Australia would be eager to respond with strong performances, using the upcoming series as a platform to bounce back and reaffirm their status at the top of international women’s cricket.