Ravichandran Ashwin / At the age of 39, Ashwin will now play for this team, becoming the first Indian to do so

After retiring from international cricket and the IPL, Ravichandran Ashwin has now turned to foreign leagues. He joined the Sydney Thunder, becoming the first Indian cricketer to play in the Big Bash League. The 39-year-old Ashwin will be seen playing in the second half of the BBL. He has taken over 500 wickets in Tests.

Ravichandran Ashwin: Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently announced his retirement from international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Now, he is ready to showcase his talent in global T20 leagues. Ashwin has signed with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming season of Australia's Big Bash League (BBL). With this historic move, he has become the first Indian male cricketer to play in the BBL. The 39-year-old Ashwin will be available for Sydney Thunder for the second half of the BBL, which runs from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026.

Ashwin's New Beginning with Sydney Thunder

Ashwin expressed his enthusiasm about his contract with Sydney Thunder. He said, "My discussions with Sydney Thunder have been very positive. The team management is completely convinced of my role, and I am eager to play for them. I have always been a fan of David Warner's game, and it will be exciting for me to play alongside him."

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland called the deal the biggest in BBL history. He said, "We are proud to have a legendary player like Ravichandran Ashwin join our team. He is a cricket icon and his competitive mindset will take us to new heights. This is possibly the biggest signing in BBL history."

First Indian Male Cricketer in BBL

Ravichandran Ashwin will be the first Indian male cricketer to play in the BBL. Previously, India-born players Unmukt Chand and Nikhil Chaudhary participated in the BBL after emigrating abroad, but Ashwin is the first Indian player to play in the league directly from India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) does not allow its active players to play in foreign leagues, but after retirement, Ashwin can now freely participate in such leagues.

Ashwin also recently participated in the auction for the UAE's International League T20 (ILT20). After the ILT20 season concludes on January 4, 2026, he will join Sydney Thunder for the second half of the BBL.

Ashwin's Illustrious Cricket Career

Ravichandran Ashwin's cricket career is etched in golden letters in Indian cricket history. He represented India in all three formats and troubled batsmen around the world with his spin. In Test cricket, Ashwin took 537 wickets in 106 matches, making him one of the best spinners in the world. Additionally, he took 156 wickets in 116 ODIs and 72 wickets in T20 Internationals.

Ashwin is not only a brilliant bowler but has also made many memorable contributions with the bat. His strategic thinking, dedication to the game, and constant desire to learn have made him one of cricket's greatest players.

Ashwin's New Challenge on the Global Stage

Ashwin's inclusion in the BBL is an exciting moment not only for him but also for Indian cricket fans. His presence will add a new edge to the Sydney Thunder's bowling attack, and his experience will benefit the younger players. Beyond the BBL, Ashwin is also eyeing other T20 leagues around the world, where he hopes to entertain fans with his play.