Leicestershire sign Ashton Turner for 2026 Vitality Blast

Leicestershire CCC is delighted to announce the signing of Australian international Ashton Turner as one of our overseas players for the 2026 Vitality Blast campaign.

The 32-year-old will join fellow overseas signing Keshav Maharaj, forming a high-class international duo as the Foxes look to make a strong impact in next summer’s competition.

A powerful middle-order batter, Turner has amassed almost 4,000 T20 runs across global competitions, including franchise tournaments in India, Australia, England, Pakistan and beyond. His standout performances include an unbeaten 84 in the 2022/23 Big Bash League, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks under pressure.

His skillset and leadership earned him opportunities in The Hundred, representing both Manchester Originals and London Spirit, as well as multiple stints in the Vitality Blast - where he has over 900 runs at a strike rate above 140, underlining his value in English conditions.

Turner has also featured 28 times for Australia in white-ball cricket, famously blasting 84 not out against India, reinforcing his reputation as a high-impact player capable of winning games single-handedly.

Upon signing for the Club, Turner said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the club for the 2026 Blast campaign. Leicestershire has always been a club that I’ve respected from afar and have enjoyed playing against. I’ve loved my time playing in the competition and look forward to returning in 2026.”

Not just a batting threat, Turner adds balance with the ball, claiming 69 T20 wickets with his off-breaks, offering a useful option in middle-overs matchups.

The Australian brings vast franchise experience and a proven winning pedigree, attributes that will undoubtedly bolster the Foxes in 2026 as we chase Blast success.

Head Coach Alfonso Thomas said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ashton to Leicestershire for our 2026 Vitality Blast campaign. Having played alongside him at the Perth Scorchers, I know first-hand the professionalism, competitiveness and character he brings to a team.

He is a serial trophy winner, a proven match-winner, and an outstanding leader who sets the highest standards for those around him. Ashton’s experience captaining in elite competitions around the world will add real value to our squad on and off the field. His style of cricket fits perfectly with the brand we are building here at Uptonsteel Grace Road, and I know our supporters will enjoy watching him take centre stage.”

Director of Cricket Claude Henderson added: "Ashton is a high-quality signing for our club and a statement of intent for the direction we are heading. His ability to change games with the bat, his tactical awareness, and his professionalism make him an exceptional addition

We’ve been very deliberate in our recruitment; we want players who elevate standards and inspire those around them. Ashton does exactly that and we’re delighted he chose Leicestershire. We look forward to seeing the impact he will have on our squad and our Blast campaign."

See Ashton Turner make his debut for the foxes with our 2026 T20 Annual Match Pass - click here to buy yours now before the end of early bird pricing on the 31st of December.