Sydney Thunder sign R Ashwin for BBL 2025-26, becomes first capped Indian to play in Aussie franchise league

In what seems to be a big piece of news for the Indian cricket fans, the former legendary off-spinner and all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin is set to feature for the Sydney Thunder in the upcoming season of the Big Bash League. The Aussie franchise has signed Ashwin for their last three games, including the finals of the upcoming BBL 2025-26. Ashwin has signed for a limited number of matches due to the upcoming International League T20. So, it also translates into the fact that he will also be in action in ILT20.

Getting on board with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming BBL assignment, Ashwin has also become the first-ever capped Indian player to play in the Aussie franchise league. Notably, the WBBL has seen some India Women stars playing in the tournament, but the BCCI’s policies for India men have kept them away from the men’s BBL tournament. Earlier, two uncapped Indian stars, Unmukt Chand and Nikhil Chaudhary, have featured in the tournament in recent years. But Chand has played the tournament as a citizen of the USA, while Chaudhary is also featuring in the tournament after his identity qualified as an Australian citizen. He also made his List-A debut for Tasmania in Australia this month in the ongoing One-Day Cup 2025.

Ashwin’s way to the BBL became possible after he announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League, the cash-rich and most celebrated franchise league across the cricketing world. Besides his appearance in the upcoming Big Bash League, the 39-year-old has also registered for the ILT20 auction, where he is also the player holding the highest base price.

“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,” said Ashwin after getting signed by Sydney Thunder.