Perth Scorchers’ captain, Ashton Turner, is set to miss the rest of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 season following a knee injury that required surgical intervention. Turner underwent the procedure after sustaining an injury while bowling during the match between Perth Scorchers and Hobart Hurricanes.
The blow comes as a setback for the Scorchers as Turner, their key player, will no longer participate in the ongoing BBL season. The injury occurred during the ninth match of the tournament between Hobart Hurricanes and Perth Scorchers at the Optus Stadium in Perth on December 20. Turner, aged 30, introduced himself to bowl the 12th over when Hobart was struggling at 74/5. However, after delivering the first ball of the over, he experienced discomfort in his right knee, forcing him to leave the field. Consequently, he was unable to continue participating in the game.
Official reports from the Scorchers confirmed that Turner suffered a meniscus tear in his right knee, necessitating surgery. The defending champions stated that Turner would not be able to compete for the remainder of the tournament, and a timeline for his return will be determined at a later stage.
In an official statement, the Scorchers expressed, “Perth Scorchers captain Ashton Turner will miss the remainder of the KFC BBL|13 season following surgery this morning to repair a meniscus tear in his right knee.”
The Scorchers management is currently evaluating options for appointing an interim captain. An official announcement regarding the stand-in captaincy is expected before their upcoming clash against the Melbourne Renegades on Boxing Day.
Meanwhile, Ashton Turner aims for a redemption opportunity in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after an underwhelming stint in 2019. During the 2019 IPL season with the Rajasthan Royals, Turner played four matches but faced struggles, registering three consecutive ducks. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) acquired him for his base price of INR 1 crore in the IPL 2024 auction, presenting Turner with a chance to prove himself once again.
Notably, LSG has appointed former Australian opener Justin Langer as their head coach earlier this year. The team finished third on the points table in the previous season before exiting in the Eliminator against the Mumbai Indians. With a robust squad assembled, LSG aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming IPL season.
