Ravichandran Ashwin To Join Sydney Thunder, Starts Big Bash League Adventure: Report | Cricket News

Last Updated:September 24, 2025, 16:36 IST

Ravichandran Ashwin all set to join Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League after retiring from Indian cricket, marking his first overseas franchise stint.

A report from the Sydney Morning Herald reveals that, as per anonymous sources, because of the sensitive nature of the talks, a deal with Ashwin for the upcoming season is close to being finalised.

Ashwin, who has claimed 537 wickets at an average of 24 across 106 Tests, has expressed his eagerness to join the Thunder. Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg has been in discussions with him about the possibility of playing in Australia.

No capped Indian male player has ever played in the Big Bash League, but Ashwin’s retirement from the Indian Premier League earlier this year has paved the way for his first venture into overseas franchise cricket.

The BCCI only permits retired Indian players to take part in overseas T20 leagues. Earlier this year, Dinesh Karthik played for the Paarl Royals in the SA20. Two years ago, Ambati Rayudu appeared for the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the Caribbean Premier League and then joined MI Emirates in the ILT20 in January 2024.

Former Indian cricketers Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan featured for the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 as well. Two years ago, Suresh Raina was part of the Deccan Gladiators in the Abu Dhabi T10.

Ashwin has already confirmed his participation in the inaugural ILT20 auction in the UAE, scheduled for next Tuesday. If selected, he will compete in the ILT20 season, which has been rescheduled to run from December 2 to January 4.

The Big Bash League begins on December 14, with the home-and-away games running until January 18. The finals are scheduled between January 20 and 25. This means Ashwin will be available for three to four games toward the end of the season for the Thunder, plus the finals if the franchise qualifies.