Although not confirmed, it is likely that former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin will represent a franchise in the next season of the BBL to become a first to do so. Ashwin recently announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League to explore other leagues around the world. He had already retired from all forms of international cricket in December 2024.
It is reported that Cricket Australia’s CEO Todd Greenberg has been in touch with the seasoned off-spinner in relation to the possibility of him playing in the Big Bash League ever since he announced his retirement from the IPL last week. Greenberg seemed excited for a ‘champion cricketer’ and player of the calibre of Ashwin to play in the BBL.
“To get someone with Ashwin’s credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels. He’s a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our cricket summer,” stated Greenberg as quoted by.
If the deal materializes, Ashwin will become the first Indian cricketer to play in the BBL.
The 38-year-old has picked up 765 international wickets in 287 matches in a 14-year-long career. Ashwin had previously posted on social media about his decision to hang his boots from the IPL after representing five matches in his 221-game stint in the cash-rich tournament.
The Chennai-born has garnered interest from The Hundred for the 2026 season. He has also stated that he wants to register himself for the International League T20 auction. Ashwin spoke to the same publication about his talks with the organizers of the ILT20, which is set to begin in December, however, the squads are yet to be finalized.
“Yes, I am in talks with the organisers. Hopefully, I will have a buyer if I register for the auction,” Ashwin had told Cricbuzz earlier.
Other than his exploits for India, Ashwin was a crucial component for CSK in the IPL. He has been instrumental in their growth to become a powerhouse in the marquee league. Ashwin played 221 matches in the IPL, picking up 187 wickets at an economy rate of 7.20.
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