Following an unexpected turn of events at the ILT20 auction, veteran Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has solidified his commitment to the Big Bash League (BBL), agreeing to play the entire season for the Sydney Thunder. The off-spinning all-rounder, who went unsold at the ILT20 auction despite registering at the highest base price of US$120,000, has opted to extend his stay with the Thunder, much to the delight of the BBL organizers and fans.

Ashwin's initial agreement with the Sydney Thunder was for a limited period, covering the final three matches of the regular season and the playoffs. This arrangement was made with the anticipation that he would participate in the ILT20, which runs from December to January. However, with the ILT20 opportunity no longer on the cards, Ashwin has now committed to the entirety of BBL|15, including the finals.

The decision marks a significant moment for the BBL, as Ashwin will be the first capped Indian male player to participate in the league. While other players of Indian origin have featured in the BBL, they did so after obtaining citizenship of other countries. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) generally restricts active Indian international and domestic cricketers from participating in overseas T20 leagues, but this restriction doesn't apply to retired players. Ashwin's recent retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) paved the way for him to explore opportunities in leagues around the world.

Trent Copeland, the General Manager of Sydney Thunder, expressed his excitement about Ashwin's decision to play the full BBL season. He stated that the club had always intended to bring Ashwin to Western Sydney for the entire tournament and that Ashwin's commitment demonstrates his belief in the team's vision.

Ashwin's first match for the Thunder is scheduled to be against the Hobart Hurricanes on December 16, a rematch of the previous BBL final. His first home appearance will be at the Sydney Smash on December 20.

Several reports suggest surprise and speculation surrounding Ashwin's experience at the ILT20 auction. Some reports indicated that he may have withdrawn his name from the auction just before it commenced, which surprised commentators. Despite being in the highest price bracket, no franchises bid for him. Commentators such as Simon Doull noted that several teams had significant funds available, making Ashwin's lack of selection even more unexpected.

Ultimately, the sequence of events has resulted in a major boost for the BBL, with Ashwin now set to showcase his skills throughout the entire season. This development is expected to draw significant attention to the league, particularly from Indian cricket fans.