Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner says cricket has provided a welcome escape during a challenging period in her personal life, as she thanked teammates for their support, following the breakdown of her marriage.

Gardner's marriage ended earlier in the year, with former partner Monica Wright criticising the cricketer for her relationship with Australia teammate Georgia Voll on social media.

Cricket Australia knew about the relationship before Wright's comments and the governing body backed the all-rounder to continue as vice-captain, despite scrutiny over her leadership position.

Speaking at the Sydney Sixers season launch in Sydney, Gardner acknowledged the toll of a difficult period for her personally, but said her cricket commitments had helped her maintain perspective.

"Challenging, but cricket has been a fantastic escape," she said. "Being able to win the World Cup and have success in The Hundred campaign, as well, was great.

"I have had some fantastic people around me to be there when I've needed them and cricket has been great, because I know the people around me support me. They know the type of person I am."

Gardner also starred in recent Twenty20 encounters against New Zealand, named Player of the Series, after hitting 84 runs off 45 balls in a comprehensive victory at the North Sydney Oval.

In August, Sixers captain Gardner apologised for the pain caused by her marriage breakdown and thanked Cricket Australia for backing her leadership.

The Sixers also stood by Gardner, announcing in July she would remain captain for the Women's Big Bash League season. Among her teammates is White Ferns captain Melie Kerr.

"Obviously this club means a lot to me [and] to have the backing from the people at the top," Gardner said.

- Reuters