Ashton Turner to lead Durham in T20 Blast

The Australian batsman Ashton Turner has been signed by Durham and is all set to lead the Chester-Le-Street-based club in the T20 Blast. This assignment will mark the Perth-born batter's debut in the English County circuit. 

Turner has an exemplary record as a captain in recent times as his extraordinary leadership skills led Perth Scorchers and Western Australia to lift the BBL and Marsh Cup, respectively. 

Known as one of the fiercest hitters of the leather ball in the country, Turner has represented Australia in 9 ODIs and 18 T20Is so far. His breath-taking knock of 84 against India in Mohali grabbed many eyeballs, following which Rajasthan Royals picked him in the  2019 Indian Premier League (IPL). 

In his 9-years long T20 career, the 29-year-old has slammed 1888 runs at a decent strike rate of 135.5. He has also picked 24 T20 wickets with his off-break bowling at an economy of 7.15.

Reacting to his participation in the famed t20 league, Turner said that he has been a regular audience of the T20 Blast. He is overwhelmed by becoming a part of the mega competition.  

"The blast is a competition that I’ve watched with a keen interest from afar, and I’m really excited to be able to take part in it this summer," Turner said. "I’m excited to achieve some success with the club, and no doubt we will have some fun along the way. I look forward to meeting everyone very soon," the right-handed batter added.

On the other hand, Durham's Director of cricket Mr Marcus North, said that the club welcomes the Australian allrounder gleefully. He also praised Turner's exceptional captaincy skills in the BBL and expected the Western-Australian to replicate the same level of success during his stint with Durham in the T20 Blast. 

"We’re extremely pleased to welcome Ashton to Durham this summer to lead us out in the Vitality Blast", North said. "In addition to his powerful batting performances, Ash is a proven leader, having captained the Scorchers and Western Australia to multiple championships in recent years and will be a great addition to Durham. I look forward to Ashton joining up with the squad in May," he concluded.