Report: Ravichandran Ashwin poised to join Sydney Thunder in BBL

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is reportedly set to feature in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the first time, with Sydney Thunder closing in on his signature. If confirmed, the league would be marking a historic moment as the first appearance by a major Indian men’s cricketer in the most premier T20 competition in all of Australia.

Earlier this year, the 38-year-old announced his retirement from international cricket as well as all domestic competitions in India, including the IPL. This move cleared the way for him to pursue opportunities abroad, as Indian players are permitted to feature in overseas leagues only after stepping away from national and domestic duties. Ashwin had previously expressed his desire to test himself in different franchise environments, and the BBL now looks set to be his next chapter.

According to reports, Ashwin is expected to link up with the Sydney-based club after fulfilling his commitments in the UAE-based ILT20, where he has already entered the auction. Thunder, who already boast the likes of David Warner and youngster Sam Konstas, will see the veteran's experience as a crucial addition to their spin department, not to forget that the 39-year-old has credentials of being a handy contributor with the bat as well.

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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.