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Ashleigh Gardner tests positive for Covid-19; set to miss at least two World Cup matches
Follow UsThe Australia all-rounder could be in contention for her side's third match against New Zealand on March 13
Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has tested positive for Covid-19 and as a result will miss at least a couple of games in the ICC Women's World Cup, starting Friday (March 4).
Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed Gardner produced a positive rapid antigen test (RAT) on Wednesday (March 2) morning and received a positive PCR test result the following morning.
"Gardner will remain in Christchurch and, in line with ICC and New Zealand government health guidelines, will continue isolating for 10 days," the CA statement read.
"All remaining Australian players and support staff have tested negative following subsequent RATs, and will proceed with existing plans to travel to Hamilton."
Gardner will miss the games against England and Pakistan but could be in contention for the next game against New Zealand in Wellington on March 13. Luckily for Australia, Gardner's teammates returned with negative RAT results.
Vice-captain Rachael Haynes expressed disappointment over Gardner's absence but admits this may not be the only instance when the virus disrupts the tournament. "We've managed to dodge COVID within our group over the last couple of years, and I guess to have a positive case on the eve of the first game isn't ideal," she said.
"I spoke to Ash yesterday and obviously she's really disappointed but she's feeling OK, which is obviously important from a health perspective.
"It is unfortunate, she obviously probably would have been in our 11 for that first game, but we've seen some really strong performances from different players in our warm-up games so someone else will obviously step into her role, which will provide an opportunity.
"I'd be really surprised if this is probably the first and only example of COVID impacting the tournament. We've just got to roll with it and move forward as a team."
The ICC on its part has also introduced emergency rules for the mega event allowing the match to happen with just nine players, in case of a Covid outbreak. Gardner recently won the Belinda Clark Award for her top performances over the last year or so. During the 12-month period, Gardner scored 281 runs at 35.1 across formats and also chipped in with nine wickets with the ball.
Australia will begin their World Cup campaign against England at Seddon Park, Hamilton on Saturday (March 5).