According to reports, former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin will make his Big Bash League (BBL) debut as the Sydney Thunder are vying for his services. If verified, it would be the first time a prominent Indian men’s cricket player has participated in Australia’s top T20 league, making it a historic occasion.
The 38-year-old declared earlier this year that he was retiring from all Indian domestic cricket contests, including the IPL, as well as international cricket. Since Indian players are only allowed to play in foreign competitions after resigning from their local and national responsibilities, this move gave him the opportunity to pursue chances elsewhere.
Ashwin had previously stated that he wanted to experience other franchise settings, and it now appears that the BBL will be his next venture.
After fulfilling his obligations in the UAE-based ILT20, where he has already entered the auction, Ashwin is reportedly likely to join the Sydney-based club. In addition to the fact that the 39-year-old has proven to be a valuable batsman, Thunder, who also have players like David Warner and youthful Sam Konstas, will view the veteran’s experience as an essential addition to their spin department.
He is considered by many to be one of the best off-spinners in modern cricket and has amassed over 700 wickets in international cricket across all forms, making a lasting impression on the sport with his strategies and versatility. Given the long-standing limitations that prevented active Indian players from playing in international competitions, his possible arrival in the BBL is being heralded as a historic milestone for both the game and Indian cricket.
The timing of Ashwin’s signing for the Sydney Thunder could not be more ideal. The team had a terrible 2024–25 season, finishing last in the standings with just one victory in ten games. With 405 runs, Warner was their best player, and Chris Green led the bowling stats with 12 wickets. The side lacked balance despite their best efforts, especially in the spin department, which Ashwin could address with his expertise and experience.
If the deal goes through, Ashwin will be one of the biggest foreign additions for the 2025–26 BBL season, giving the Sydney Thunder new hope as they try to win their second championship since 2015–16.
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