Gujarat Giants’ prominent all-rounder had a disappointing start to the tournament opener against Mumbai Indians, but appeared to be in good form during Match 3 of the Women’s Premier League at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy.
The Australian player had been in spectacular form before the tournament and had reached 25 off 18 balls, preparing to accelerate during the last five overs of the Giants’ innings. However, her plans were foiled by a comical stumping by her fellow countrywoman, Alyssa Healy.
During the 16th over, Deepti Sharma’s delivery missed Gardner, who had charged down the ground. Healy failed to catch the ball, but it managed to hit her helmet grille and dislodge the bail. Despite being outside the crease when the bails were dislodged, Gardner was disappointed to be dismissed in such an unexpected manner.
Healy, widely considered the best female wicket-keeper at present, could not contain her laughter at having stumped her compatriot in such a way. Fans have dubbed it Gardner’s “luckiest dismissal.”
