In a historic move, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to become the first male Indian player to join the Big Bash League (BBL), signing with the Sydney Thunder for the upcoming BBL 15 season. The 39-year-old, who retired from international cricket last year and recently from the Indian Premier League (IPL), will join the Thunder in early January to strengthen their campaign for consecutive BBL Finals appearances.
Ashwin's signing marks a significant moment, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) generally restricts male players from participating in overseas T20 leagues. This restriction is typically in place while players are still active in international cricket or the IPL. However, after retiring from both international and IPL cricket, Ashwin is now eligible to participate in foreign leagues. While Indian women have participated in the Women's Big Bash League, Ashwin's signing represents a breakthrough for male Indian cricketers.
Ashwin ended his international career in December of last year, retiring from Test cricket with an impressive 765 international wickets across all formats, including 537 in Tests. He also had a successful IPL career, playing 221 games for five different franchises and securing 187 wickets, placing him fifth all-time in the tournament. He has won the IPL title twice with Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011. His individual accolades include being named ICC's Cricketer and Test Cricketer of the Year in 2016. He was also selected for the 2011-20 Men's Test Team of the Decade.
The Sydney Thunder expressed their excitement about signing Ashwin, highlighting his leadership qualities and his ability to connect with Western Sydney's multicultural community. General Manager Trent Copeland stated that Ashwin impressed everyone at the Thunder with his passion, desire to win, and understanding of the club's values. Copeland believes that Ashwin will bring fresh energy and world-class bowling to the team, while also serving as a valuable mentor for the younger players. He also anticipates that Ashwin's connection with the growing Indian diaspora in Western Sydney will attract new fans and members to the Thunder Nation.
Ashwin himself expressed enthusiasm about joining the Sydney Thunder, stating that he was impressed with the team's clarity of vision and their confidence in his role. He also spoke highly of Thunder captain Dave Warner, noting that their shared mindset would be beneficial.
Before joining the Thunder, Ashwin will participate in the ILT20 tournament, which takes place in the United Arab Emirates from December 2 to January 4. He will then join the Thunder in early January, adding to their already strong squad, which includes players like David Warner, Lockie Ferguson, Sam Billings and Shadab Khan. The Thunder will commence their BBL 15 campaign with a Grand Final rematch against the Hurricanes in Hobart on December 16 and will then return home for a Sydney Smash against the Sydney Sixers on December 20.
Ashwin's addition to the Sydney Thunder is viewed as a significant acquisition, with Copeland calling it potentially the biggest signing in BBL history. His presence is expected to boost the team's performance and attract a wider audience, particularly within the Indian community. With his wealth of experience and exceptional skills, Ashwin is poised to make a significant impact on the BBL.
