Ashwin Becomes First Indian Male Cricketer to Join Big Bash League

By Abhishek Kumar

In a groundbreaking move for world cricket veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has signed with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming BBL|15 becoming the first male cricketer from India to feature in Australia’s premier T20 league.

Ashwin who retired from international cricket in December 2024 and stepped away from the IPL earlier this year is now eligible to play overseas leagues. The Thunder confirmed that the 39-year-old will join the squad in January 2026 after completing his stint in the UAE’s ILT20 tournament. The franchise hailed Ashwin’s inclusion as one of the biggest overseas signings in BBL history highlighting not only his world-class spin skills but also his leadership and experience. With 765 international wickets and 187 IPL scalps Ashwin’s presence is expected to strengthen the Thunder both on and off the field.

Ashwin expressed excitement about reuniting with David Warner Thunder’s skipper saying the management’s vision was crystal clear and matched his own cricketing outlook. While Indian-origin players like Unmukt Chand and Nikhil Chaudhary have previously appeared in the BBL, Ashwin’s entry marks the first time a full-fledged Indian international has broken this barrier