Ashwin signs for Sydney Thunder in boost to Big Bash
- Published
Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will play for Sydney Thunder in this winter's Big Bash League and will become the first men's India international to play in the T20 league.
Ashwin, 39, will travel to Australia following his commitments at the ILT20, likely in early January.
He retired from international cricket in December 2024 and from the Indian Premier League last year, making him eligible for global franchise leagues.
In announcing the deal, the Big Bash described it as "one of the biggest signings in BBL history".
It will be hoped a player of Ashwin's stature - he played 287 times for India and is one of the greatest Test spinners of his generation - can boost the league's profile.
The Big Bash is considering private investment into its' eight franchises, which would follow on from similar deals for The Hundred.
The Hundred sales generated more than £500m with four franchises bought by India-based groups.
Ashwin will play under former Australia opener David Warner at Thunder.
"Thunder were crystal clear about how they'd use me and brave enough to back it," Ashwin said.
"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. I can't wait to perform for the Thunder Nation."
The ILT20, which begins in early December, will be Ashwin's first experience of a franchise league outside of the IPL. His team is expected to be confirmed at next week's auction.
