Ashton’s making a big splash
CHRIS ASHTON is flying in France. For up-to-date proof, seek out footage of the long-range solo try he scored for Toulon in their Top 14 win over Brive at Stade Felix Mayol.
The 30-year-old won’t play for England again, but the latest evidence suggests that is England’s loss. What he did on Saturday was deliver another demonstration of Test-class running and finishing, to illustrate the enduring qualities which Saracens were so disappointed to lose.
Receiving the ball in his own 22, Ashton veered left and accelerated clear of two defenders. He burst down the flank past another flailing opponent and held off yet another would-be tackler before rounding off his 96-metre strike with the famous ‘Ash Splash’ swallow- dive. Rarely has it been more justified than after this showcase of pace, balance and predatory instinct.
The man who claimed 19 tries in his 39 Tests for England touched down twice in his team’s 41-24 victory, to take his tally to six tries in his new league. His exploits have made a mockery of suggestions that his cross-Channel move could turn out to be ill-advised. Leaving Saracens — where a dynasty is being established under Mark McCall — was a career gamble of sorts, but the early signs are that it is paying off.
Without the realistic hope of further England honours, Ashton (right) evidently needed a new challenge. Discovering if he can prosper amid the galacticos at Toulon and around the Top 14 has galvanised a player who seemed to suffer from a perception problem in this country. Two hefty bans and the ensuing fallout took a toll on Ashton but, more than that, he had become a misunderstood figure. The class clown persona was often taken as proof of a casual attitude, but that has never been the case. Ashton was desperate to play for England again and he has a strong work ethic and good nature, to go with the on-field theatrics and a jovial streak. He started in rugby league and his code switch has been a triumph, in the context of so many league players failing to make the transition. At a time when another Wigan product, Sale’s Josh Charnley, is rumoured to be considering a move back to the 13-man game, Ashton’s union feats deserve to be properly appreciated. The supreme finisher hasn’t finished making a Splash just yet.