Meg Lanning said the Australian women’s team is united in supporting criticism of Indigenous star Ashley Gardner and her side, who will play on January 26.
Gardner said Sunday was “a day of hurt and a day of mourning” for Indigenous Australians, and clarified her views on the matter.
Incumbent Belinda, her Clark Award winner, will face Pakistan in T20, but says she did not enjoy the day.
The second T20 vs Pakistan match was originally scheduled for 27 January in Canberra but was postponed to 26 January in Hobart after South Africa abandoned the men’s ODI series, which included a scheduled match in the southern city. It was
In a player-driven move, Australia will wear Aboriginal jerseys, armbands and socks in Aboriginal colors at the Hobart match. It is understood that this issue was first raised several months ago by a player who was keen to lead a reconnaissance section on the subject after being told to play on January 26th.
“It’s something we have no control over in terms of planning and playing that day,” Lanning said.
“We use this opportunity to educate ourselves and try to understand better what it means and their culture. I support Ash and her feelings all day long.”
Lanning said he’s “doing pretty well” after Gardner was abused online and said the all-rounder’s actions were brave. Gardner was training with the Australian team on Monday, among numerous media outlets focusing on the issue.
The 26th January issue has been a constant challenge for Australia in recent years, and the issue on which the governing bodies regularly receive information from the Indigenous Advisory Board.
The organization removed the term ‘Australia Day’ from all marketing two years ago after he was criticized by then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
Indigenous elements will be part of all Big Bash League uniforms starting next season, and the women’s team will wear First Nations jerseys at his T20 World Cup next month.
“This is something we’ve been working on as a group for years,” Lanning said. “We have taken every opportunity to educate ourselves and strive to celebrate and point out Aboriginal culture.
“We do the day before [26. Jan.] a cultural tour to learn a little more. will continue.”