R Ashwin to play for Sydney Thunder in BBL: Reports

On August 27, legendary spinner and former Indian cricketer,Ravichandran Ashwin put down curtains to his elaborated Indian Premier League (IPL) career, which spanned across 18 seasons. The veteran of the game’s decision just months after his international retirement, but he later revealed that as he aims to play different franchise leagues around the world, he decided to call it quits from IPL.

However, its been almost a month that Ashwin bid adieu to IPL after last featuring in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) colours in IPL 2025, he has been amidst talks as two of the renowned T20 franchise leagues approach. However, the former cricketer himself revealed of registering for the International League T20 (ILT20) auction, there have been talks of him also

playing the Big Bash League (BBL).

R Ashwin likely to play for Sydney Thunders in BBL

Just a day after reports emerged of four BBL franchises, namely Sydney Thunder, Sydney Sixers, Hobart Hurricanes ad Adelaide Strikers being in talks with R Ashwin, recent claims have added that he will be seen in the Sydney Thunder greens. According to Code Sports, Ashwin is expected to join the Thunders after completing his commitments in ILT20.

If so happens, he will become the first Indian capped men’s player to feature in the BBL. If he is acquired by the Sydney Thunder, he will join the likes of David Warner, rising batter Sam Konstas and others.

The Sydney Thunder had a disappointing season in 2024-25 edition of BBL, finishing last with just one win in ten matches. David Warner finished as the top-scorer for the team with 405 runs whereas Chris Green was the leading wicket-taker with 12 scalps to his name. With R Ashwin’s likely inclusion, thus strengthening the spin department, the Thunders will aim to revive their last season.