Ravichandran Ashwin Set to Sign Historic BBL Deal with Sydney Thunder

Former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin is expected to become the first well-known player from the nation to participate in the Big Bash League when he joins the Sydney Thunder. After announcing his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ashwin said he would now play in T20 competitions all over the world.

Ashwin will join Thunder once the UAE's ILT20 concludes in early January, according to Australian publications Fox Cricket and Code Sports. Ashwin has previously declared his intention to participate in the auction and committed to the full ILT20, which concludes on January 4.

Ravichandran Ashwin's Upcoming Plans:

💰 Ravichandran Ashwin is set to sign a million-dollar deal with the BBL 💰

The India star will reportedly sign a two-year contract with Sydney Thunder 🇦🇺✈️

[Via: The Age 📰] pic.twitter.com/1cyq5jQ2WE

— Sport360° (@Sport360) September 24, 2025

The cricketer had declared earlier this year that he would be retiring from all Indian domestic cricket contests, including the IPL, as well as international cricket. Since Indian players are only allowed to play in foreign competitions after resigning from their local and national responsibilities, this move allowed him to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Ashwin had previously stated that he wanted to experience other franchise settings, and it now appears that the BBL will be his next venture.

After fulfilling his obligations in the UAE-based ILT20, where he has already entered the auction, Ashwin is reportedly likely to join the Sydney-based club. In addition to the fact that the 39-year-old has proven to be a valuable batsman, Thunder, which also has players like David Warner and the youthful Sam Konstas, will view the veteran's experience as an essential addition to their spin department.

The timing of Ashwin's signing for the Sydney Thunder could not be more ideal. The team had a terrible 2024–25 season, finishing last in the standings with just one victory in ten games. With 405 runs, Warner was their best player, and Chris Green led the bowling stats with 12 wickets. The side lacked balance despite their best efforts, especially in the spin department, which Ashwin could address with his expertise and experience.

If the deal goes through, Ashwin will be one of the biggest foreign additions for the 2025–26 BBL season, giving the Sydney Thunder new hope as they try to win their second championship since 2015–16.

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