A forthcoming knee surgery has forced former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin to postpone his Big Bash League (BBL) debut with the Sydney Thunder. Ashwin was upset about losing out on the chance to become the first Indian player with a cap to play in the BBL.
The Sydney Thunder announced that they were collaborating closely with Ashwin to develop an updated activity regimen for after his operation. Since leaving the IPL earlier this year, Ashwin has had time to look for opportunities in foreign tournaments. According to reports, his contract with the Sydney Thunder was the sole confirmed deal after he was not sold at the ILT20 auction. Prior to his injury forcing him to withdraw, he had committed to playing the entire 2025–26 BBL season.
Recognized as one of India’s most skilled spinners, Ashwin has played in more than 450 international matches for his country and taken more than 700 wickets in all forms.
A letter from Ash💚 pic.twitter.com/mQqjpUYS9O
— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) November 4, 2025
“I regret missing BBL|15. My current priorities are getting better and returning stronger. I’m thankful for the welcome I’ve already received from the Thunder family and supporters. As soon as we spoke, Trent [Copeland, Thunder general manager] and the whole staff gave me a sense of belonging. Later in the season, I would love to see the fans and be with the group, if travel and rehabilitation permits. “I hope both Thunder teams have a fantastic year,” Ashwin wrote in a statement.
We wish Ash a speedy recovery. Ash’s knee injury, which has prevented him from playing in BBL|15, devastated everyone at Sydney Thunder. Ash was devoted to Thunder from the first time we spoke with him. Trent Copeland stated, “We hope to have him in our dugout for a portion of BBL|15, introduce him to our fans at events, and establish a long-term relationship,” according to ESPNcricinfo.
We have assembled two championship-contending teams, which is unfortunate for the club, and we anticipate building on the success of the previous WBBL|11 and BBL|15 seasons. For two huge campaigns, we are eager to return to Western Sydney and play in front of our supporters,” he continued.
India
