St Kitts, April 2 – Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner has stressed the importance of maintaining momentum as the team aims for a clean sweep in the ODI series against the West Indies. The final match is scheduled to be played here on Thursday, and she said that the team’s sole aim when they wear the jersey is to win “as many games” for their country.
Having already secured the series with consecutive wins in the first two ODIs, Australia have been dominant throughout the Caribbean tour, earlier registering a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I leg as well.
The ongoing series serves as their final international assignment before the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, making the last ODI a crucial opportunity to end on a high note.
Gardner emphasised that the team remains focused on delivering a complete performance in the final fixture rather than easing off after sealing the series.
“Whenever we put on this jersey, we want to win as many games as possible for our country, and I think, as we approach the end of the season, we're all really excited to finish on a high, knowing that we have a big break before the hectic summer ahead,” Gardner said ahead of the third ODI.
“Our focus is definitely on ensuring that we finish the season in a clinical manner, and also celebrating the successes we've had throughout the season. We're looking forward to the upcoming months,” she added.
Gardner's Caribbean tour has had mixed results personally. The 28-year-old missed a few T20I matches due to a hamstring injury but has since made a strong impact with the ball in the ODI series.
The series has also marked a transition period for Australia, with Gardner working closely alongside new captain Sophie Molineux in her role as vice-captain.
“It has been really good working under Soph for the first time. She brings a lot of fun and energy to the team, which is really great to see. I think if you know Soph, you know her enjoyment off the field, and she certainly brought that into her leadership as well, with a lot of care for her teammates,” Gardner noted.
“Going forward, we want to work together as effectively as possible. There have been a lot of changes, whether it's players or staff members, and we're trying to figure out what we want to achieve as a leadership group, and have the most influence over the entire playing squad. It's exciting to see where this group can go,” she added.
The ongoing ODI series is part of the ICC Women's Championship cycle, where Australia have continued their unbeaten run with two victories already against the Windies, underlining their strong form ahead of a packed international calendar.