Gardner and Beaumont Advocate for Change
Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner and England opener Tammy Beaumont have called for an extended Women’s Ashes series, proposing a nine-match format that includes three Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. The current series, which concludes with a one-off Test, has sparked debates over the need for more red-ball cricket in women’s cricket.
The ongoing multi-format series features three ODIs starting on January 12, followed by three T20Is from January 20, culminating in the solitary Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from January 30.
Gardner Pushes for More Tests
Speaking at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Gardner expressed her desire for more Tests against England, though she acknowledged the challenges of fitting additional matches into an already packed schedule.
“This is a hot topic right now, and everyone has their own perspective,” Gardner said. “Personally, I would love to see a three-Test, three-ODI, three-T20I format. It would be great for the game, but it would also make the tours much longer, which could be tough given how busy our schedules are with domestic and overseas competitions.”
Despite the challenges, Gardner believes more Tests would elevate the rivalry. “Playing just one Test sometimes feels like a novelty. The way our two teams compete, a full Test series would be incredible to see who truly comes out on top,” she added, though she admitted changes may take several years to implement.
Beaumont Echoes Support
Tammy Beaumont, who scored a double century in the 2023 Women’s Ashes Test, backed Gardner’s suggestions. She emphasized how longer series build narratives and rivalries, making the competition more compelling.
“The best part of the Ashes is the narrative—the rivalry and how it evolves over a series,” Beaumont said. “You see this in men’s cricket too, where longer series create storylines and unforgettable moments. I’d love to see that for the women’s game as well.”
Memorable Moments from the 2023 Ashes
The 2023 Women’s Ashes ended in an 8-8 draw. Australia secured victory in the Test match, while England triumphed in both white-ball formats, winning the ODIs and T20Is by 2-1 each. Gardner was the standout performer in the Test, scoring 40 runs and claiming 12 wickets, including an eight-wicket haul in the second innings, which played a key role in defending 268 runs.
A Vision for the Future
As debates continue over the structure of the Women’s Ashes, Gardner and Beaumont’s advocacy highlights the growing demand for more opportunities in red-ball cricket. While logistical challenges remain, extending the series could significantly enhance the competition’s stature and provide more thrilling moments for fans and players alike.
