Despite being one of the most well-known players in the ILT20 2026 auction, legendary Indian bowler R Ashwin went unsold. The 39-year-old entered with the highest base price of USD 120,000 but received no bids. While Ashwin did not sell in the auction, he has already signed a landmark deal with the Sydney Thunder for the Big Bash League (BBL), becoming the first Indian cricketer to play in the competition.
The all-rounder, who retired from international cricket in December 2024 and the IPL in August 2025, had entered the ILT20 auction as a marquee name. With 333 T20 games and 317 wickets under his belt, he was supposed to be one of the most sought-after players. However, Ashwin’s high base price prevented him from finding a buyer in the first round. However, the Chennai native may be selected in the upcoming fast round.
Notably, he wasn’t the only well-known figure to be rejected at the auction. England’s senior fast bowler James Anderson, with a base price of USD 40,000, and Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir, priced at USD 80,000, both went unsold in an auction that featured over 300 players.
Meanwhile, in the IPL, he represented five franchises in 221 matches and took 187 wickets. His final IPL appearance came in May 2025, for the Chennai Super Kings. For India, he has won significant tournaments such as the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy.
R Ashwin to play for Sydney Thunder in BBL
Ahead of the ILT20 auction, Sydney Thunder had already announced his signing for the 2025-26 Big Bash League season, recording a historic moment for both the franchise and Indian cricket. With this, R Ashwin becomes the first capped Indian male cricketer to participate in the BBL. Ashwin himself expressed excitement about joining the team.
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role. I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset,” Ashwin said.
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