Sydney Thunder have pulled off one of the biggest signings in the history of the Big Bash League (BBL) by bringing Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin into their team for the upcoming season.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket last year during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and also recently ended his IPL career, will play for the Thunder in January, including the finals if they qualify. The 39-year-old will become the first Indian men’s international cricketer to play in the Australia-based T20 league.
Ashwin will be part of several key fixtures, including the Thunder’s trip to Brisbane Heat at the Gabba on 10 January, a clash with Melbourne Renegades on 12 January, and the Sydney Smash on 16 January, where players like Steve Smith and Babar Azam are expected to feature.
Speaking about his move, Ashwin said:
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role. I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”
A Historic Signing for Sydney Thunder
Thunder’s General Manager, Trent Copeland, called Ashwin’s signing a “pinch yourself” moment.
“I think it’s arguably the biggest signing in BBL history – the first Indian legend and an icon of the game,” he said.
Copeland also praised Ashwin’s character, stating: “He’s a very competitive guy.”
The spin-bowling all-rounder did not register for the BBL’s overseas player draft earlier this year, but the league has granted him special consideration following his IPL retirement, which allowed Sydney Thunder to sign him.
With 537 Test wickets, IPL success across five franchises with 187 wickets, and a World Cup title in 2011, Ashwin brings immense experience and skill to Sydney Thunder’s line-up.
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