Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is poised to make history in the upcoming 15th season of the Big Bash League (BBL) as he joins the Sydney Thunder. This marks a significant moment as Ashwin is set to become the first Indian male player to participate in Australia's premier T20 competition.

Ashwin's decision to join the Sydney Thunder follows his recent retirement from international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 38-year-old ended his international career in December of last year. He retired from the IPL last month. According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations, Indian players are permitted to participate in overseas leagues only after stepping away from national and domestic duties. This move has paved the way for Ashwin to explore opportunities in global T20 leagues, with the BBL being his next chapter.

Several franchises were reportedly in the race to secure Ashwin's services, including the Sydney Sixers, Adelaide Strikers, and Hobart Hurricanes. Ultimately, he chose Sydney Thunder, aiming to bolster their spin attack and contribute to their quest for a second BBL title.

Ashwin's signing is viewed as a landmark moment for the BBL and Indian cricket. He is widely regarded as one of the finest off-spinners in modern cricket, with over 700 wickets across all formats in his international career. His tactics, adaptability, and experience are expected to be invaluable to the Sydney Thunder.

The Sydney Thunder had a disappointing 2024-25 season, finishing at the bottom of the table with only one win in ten matches. While David Warner led the team in scoring with 405 runs and Chris Green topped the bowling charts with 12 wickets, the team lacked balance, especially in the spin department. Ashwin's arrival is anticipated to address this deficiency and provide stability and leadership.

Ashwin has expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Sydney Thunder, stating that he is aligned with the team's vision and appreciates David Warner's leadership. He looks forward to performing for the "Thunder Nation".

Trent Copeland, the General Manager of Sydney Thunder, is proud to have Ashwin on the team. He believes that Ashwin's passion, desire to win, and understanding of the club's values will be invaluable. Copeland also highlighted Ashwin's potential to inspire a new wave of fans from the Indian diaspora in Western Sydney.

Ashwin is expected to join the Sydney Thunder camp in early January after fulfilling his commitments in the UAE-based ILT20. The BBL season runs from December 14 to January 25, potentially allowing him to participate in the final stages of the tournament.

While Unmukt Chand was the first Indian to play in the Big Bash League, representing the Melbourne Renegades in 2021/22, Ashwin's arrival marks a new era. He will be the first high-profile Indian star to play in the Australian T20 tournament.