Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is reportedly set to make his debut in the Big Bash League (BBL), with the Sydney Thunder interested in signing him. If approved, the league would be a historic first, with a major Indian men’s cricketer making his debut in Australia’s premier T20 competition.
Earlier this year, the 38-year-old declared his retirement from international cricket and all Indian domestic events, including the IPL. This move allowed him to seek chances abroad, as Indian players can only play in overseas competitions after they have completed their national and domestic commitments. Ashwin had previously indicated a desire to try himself in various franchise setups, and the BBL now appears to be his next chapter.
According to rumours, Ashwin is expected to join the Sydney club after satisfying his responsibilities in the UAE’s ILT20, where he has already entered the auction. Thunder, who already have David Warner and youngster Sam Konstas, will regard the veteran’s expertise as a valuable addition to their spin department, not to mention the 39-year-old’s reputation as a decent batsman.
He is widely regarded as one of modern cricket’s finest off-spinners, and has taken over 700 wickets across formats in international cricket, leaving behind an indelible mark on the game with his tactics and ability to adapt. His potential arrival in the BBL is being hailed as a landmark moment not just for the tournament but also for Indian cricket, given the long-standing restrictions that kept active Indian players from foreign leagues.
For Sydney Thunder, Ashwin’s signing could not come at a better time.
The franchise endured a woeful 2024–25 season, finishing bottom of the table with just one win in ten matches. Warner was their standout performer with 405 runs, while Chris Green topped the bowling charts with 12 wickets. Despite their efforts, the side lacked balance, particularly in the spin department, a gap Ashwin could fill with both skill and experience.
If the deal is finalized, Ashwin will emerge as one of the marquee overseas signings for the 2025–26 BBL season, offering Sydney Thunder renewed hope as they aim to capture their second title since 2015–16.
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