Ravi Shastri has issued a warning to Big Bash League (BBL) batsmen ahead of Ravichandran Ashwin's debut season, cautioning them against attempting to steal singles against the wily off-spinner. Ashwin, who recently retired from both international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL), is set to play the entire BBL season for the Sydney Thunder.

Shastri, the former Indian head coach, emphasized Ashwin's experience and skill, suggesting that batsmen who underestimate him will do so at their peril. "Don't try and steal a single against him," Shastri stated, highlighting Ashwin's prowess and cricket intelligence. He lauded Ashwin's constant evolution as a bowler, noting his relentless pursuit of new skills and strategies to stay ahead of the game.

Ashwin's signing is considered a major coup for the BBL, with the 39-year-old becoming the first capped Indian player to participate in the league. While players like Nikhil Chaudhary (now an Australian citizen) and Unmukt Chand (now representing the USA) have previously featured in the competition, Ashwin's presence as a former Indian international adds significant weight to the tournament.

Trent Copeland, General Manager of Sydney Thunder, expressed his excitement about Ashwin's full-season availability. "Ashwin's decision to play the full BBL season with Sydney Thunder is another exciting moment for our club, members and fans leading into a huge summer of Big Bash," Copeland said. He added that signing Ashwin for the entire season was a "no-brainer" for the Thunder.

Ashwin's availability for the entire BBL season came after he went unsold in the ILT20 Auction. He had initially committed to playing only a few matches for the Thunder due to his hopes of participating in the UAE-based tournament. However, with no interest from ILT20 franchises, Ashwin confirmed his full-season commitment to the BBL.

Shastri has previously praised Ashwin's adaptability and his ability to reinvent himself according to the format, surface, and opponent. He also lauded Ashwin's successful partnership with Ravindra Jadeja in Test cricket, particularly in subcontinent conditions. Shastri noted that Ashwin's guile and his ability to deceive batsmen with drift and dip have made him a standout bowler.

While Ashwin's absence from overseas Test matches for India has been a point of discussion, his contributions to Indian cricket, especially in home conditions, are undeniable. With his vast experience and skills, Ashwin is expected to make a significant impact in the BBL, posing a challenge to batsmen with his variations and strategic approach.