Ravichandran Ashwin to make BBL debut for Sydney Thunder, committing to a full season after missing the ILT20 auction.
Ravichandran Ashwin to Play Full Big Bash League Season for Sydney Thunder
India’s legendary off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin, is set to feature in the entire Big Bash League season for the Sydney Thunder, turning earlier talks of a January-only stint into a full commitment, including the finals. The 39-year-old brings both tactical acumen and a cultural presence to Trevor Bayliss’ side.
The move comes shortly after Ravichandran Ashwin went unsold at the ILT20 auction at a base price of $120,000 — a decision he accepted rather than lowering his base price. While missing out in the UAE was a setback, it has paved the way for a full Australian season and created one of the most talked-about storylines for BBL 15.
Why this move matters
Ravichandran Ashwin has become the first capped Indian men’s player to feature in the Big Bash League (BBL). This was made possible only after he retired from international cricket and the IPL, removing BCCI restrictions on active, contracted players participating in overseas leagues. For the Sydney Thunder, Ashwin brings both pedigree and audience appeal. Trent Copeland, the Thunder’s director of cricket, said, “It was a no-brainer to bring him for the whole tournament. We are delighted to be bringing in an icon of the game, a leader and a world-class player who will inspire a new wave of fans to join Thunder Nation.”
Ashwin’s BBL debut is expected on December 16 against the Hurricanes in Hobart, followed by his first home game in the Sydney Smash at Engie Stadium on December 20. BBL chief Alistair Dobson called it a big win for the league, noting, “Players around the world see the Big Bash League as a competition they want to play in. Ashwin’s involvement is going to be a big part of our season.”
Selection strategy will be intriguing for the Thunder. Their spin stocks already include Chris Green and Tanveer Sangha, while pacers like George Garton, Lockie Ferguson, Wes Agar, and Daniel Sams mean only three overseas players can fit into the XI on any night. Trevor Bayliss now has a tactical chessboard to work with, making the right combination around Ashwin a key task for the management.
Ashwin also explained his stance on the ILT20 auction: “I was about to pull out a few days before the auction. I honoured my word. However, I did not agree to lowering my base price,” he told Cricbuzz, framing the non-sale as principle over price and freeing him to commit fully to the BBL.
For a league chasing star power and a player eager to explore the global T20 scene, this move is a clear win-win for both sides.
