On Friday, October 10, Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Sydney Thunder shared a big update on former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin’s participation in the upcoming edition of the tournament. Taking
to social media, the five-time champions confirmed full availability of Ashwin, who recently went unsold at the International League T20 (ILT20) player auction.
However, the 39-year-old had previously signed for the Perth-based outfit, but he was only set to participate in the final matches of the league stage and the playoffs, but his recent extension of contract has confirmed his availability for the entire season, including the playoffs and final. The decision comes after Ashwin has earlier revealed of bowing out of the ILT20 player auction ahead of the fast-paced process, disagreeing to lower his base price.
"I was about to pull out a few days before the auction because of the Thunder deal, but since I had already committed to the ILT20 that I would enter the auction, I honoured my word. However, I did not agree to lowering my base price," said Ashwin, as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Delighted to bring in an icon of the game, a leader and world-class player: Trent Copeland
The club took to X and captioned the post, “Ashw(in) Ash is locked in for the entire BBL|15 season, confirming full availability from start to finish!” With this he is set to become the first capped Indian men’s player to feature in the BBL following retirement from international cricket. He is expected to make his BBL debut on December 16 in match against Hobart Hurricanes.
Sydney Thunder boss Trent Copeland also expressed his excitement over Ashwin’s commitment. “Ashwin’s decision to play the full Big Bash League season is another exciting moment for our club. It was a no brainer to bring him in for the whole tournament. This decision demonstrates his commitment to our club and what we are trying to build. We are delighted to be bringing in an icon of the game, a leader and world-class player who will inspire a new wave of fans to join Thunder Nation,” he said in a statement.
