Ravichandran Ashwin joins Australia’s Sydney Thunder for Big Bash League

39-year-old signs two-year deal for Australian T20 competition

Last updated: September 25, 2025 | 14:48

Jai Rai, Assistant Editor

2 MIN READ

India’s Ravichandran Ashwin practises ahead of the ICC World Test Championship cricket final against Australia at The Oval, in London, on June 4, 2023. The off-spinner was left out of the team when the final started on June 7.

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Dubai: Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to join the Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season. The 39-year-old, who recently retired from the Indian Premier League, has made himself available for franchise leagues around the world, including the UAE’s International League T20.

Ashwin will link up with the Thunder in early January, aiming to strengthen their push for back-to-back BBL Finals appearances.

“Thunder were crystal clear about how they wanted to use me — and bold enough to back it,” Ashwin said. “My conversations with the leadership were outstanding; we’re fully aligned on my role. I love the way Dave Warner approaches the game, and it’s even better when your captain shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for Thunder Nation.”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland expressed his excitement about the high-profile addition. “I’m incredibly proud that Ashwin has chosen Sydney Thunder,” Copeland said. “From our very first conversation, he impressed everyone with his passion, hunger to win, and deep understanding of what makes this club unique. His arrival mid-season will inject fresh energy and world-class spin into our bowling attack. Just as importantly, his leadership and mentorship will be invaluable for our young squad.

“What’s especially exciting is Ashwin’s connection with the fast-growing Indian community in Western Sydney. His presence will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of Thunder fans and members.”

Ashwin enjoyed a glittering international career, representing India in 287 matches and taking 765 wickets across formats. In Tests, he claimed 537 wickets, ranking eighth among the highest wicket-takers in the format’s history. He was also a key part of India’s 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy victories.

In the IPL, Ashwin played 221 matches across five franchises, making him the seventh most-capped player in tournament history. He won two titles with the Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011, finishing with 187 wickets — fifth on the all-time IPL wicket-takers list.

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Jai RaiAssistant Editor

Jai is a seasoned journalist with more than two decades of experience across India and the UAE, specialising in sports reporting. Throughout his distinguished career, he has had the privilege of covering some of the biggest names and events in sports, including cricket, tennis, Formula 1 and golf. A former first-division cricket league captain himself, he brings not only a deep understanding of the game but also a cricketer's discipline to his work. His unique blend of athletic insight and journalistic expertise gives him a wide-ranging perspective that enriches his storytelling, making his coverage both detailed and engaging. Driven by an unrelenting passion for sports, he continues to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers. As the day winds down for most, he begins his work, ensuring that the most captivating stories make it to the print edition in time for readers to receive them bright and early the next morning.