Ashton James Turner is a dynamic and powerful cricketer hailing from Australia. Standing tall and possessing immense strength, Turner is known for his ability to effortlessly clear the boundary ropes with precision and finesse. His exceptional skills as a runner between the wickets and his proficiency in chasing improbable totals have made him a formidable middle-order specialist in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Turner’s journey in professional cricket began in 2013 when he made his first-class debut for Australia during a tour match against Sussex in England. This was a significant achievement for the young cricketer who was playing club cricket at the time. It was during the 2016-2017 summer season that Turner truly shone, grabbing the attention of fans and selectors alike. The highlight of his breakout season was his selection for Australia’s T20I side to face Sri Lanka in February 2017. Prior to this, he had also marked his first-class century against Tasmania and followed it up with another hundred against Queensland.
However, it was in 2019 that Turner left an indelible mark on the international stage. During Australia’s ODI against India in Mohali, Turner displayed his match-winning capabilities when he scored an unbeaten 84 runs from just 43 balls. This exceptional innings helped Australia achieve a remarkable chase of 359, etching his name into cricketing history. Despite this incredible performance, Turner was unfortunately omitted from the subsequent five-match ODI tour of the UAE and failed to secure a spot in the 2019 World Cup squad. His limited throwing ability due to significant right-shoulder issues proved to be a hindrance in the field, leading to his decreased involvement in bowling since 2017. It is worth noting that Turner initially developed as an offspinning allrounder in first-class cricket.
In the 2021-22 BBL season, Turner showcased his prowess as a batsman by amassing over 350 runs at a strike rate of 154. His exceptional performance included a crucial knock of 54 runs in the final, which played a pivotal role in helping the Perth Scorchers secure their fourth title. Turner’s heroics throughout the tournament demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and solidified his reputation as a valuable asset in the T20 format.
With his incredible power-hitting, remarkable running between the wickets, and undeniable potential, Ashton Turner continues to be a force to be reckoned with in Australian cricket. As he strives to overcome his shoulder issues and further refine his skills, Turner undoubtedly possesses the ability to make a significant impact on the international stage and leave an indelible mark on the game of cricket.
