Indian spin bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has officially signed with Sydney Thunder for the 15th season of the BBL, surprising the global cricketing world. This isn't just another player signing; it's a historic moment for both the Big Bash League and Indian cricket, as Ashwin becomes the first major Indian international to play in the Australian T20 tournament. His decision to join the Thunder comes after retiring from international cricket and the Indian Premier League, allowing him to play in other T20 leagues around the world.
Welcome to Western Sydney, @ashwinravi99 ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/RaIvaVUgAf
— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) September 25, 2025
Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is set to create history by becoming the first Indian international male cricketer to join a team in the Big Bash League (BBL). On Thursday, Sydney Thunder confirmed Ashwin's signing for the upcoming 15th season of the BBL. Welcoming Ashwin to its squad, BBL's official handle X wrote: "Confirmed: @ThunderBBL have secured one of the biggest signings in BBL history, with @ashwinravi99 set to play in #BBL15."
Ravichandran Ashwin's T20 performance
Ashwin has taken 72 wickets in his T20I career. He is one of India's leading wicket-takers in T20Is. Ashwin has taken 187 wickets in the IPL, making him among the tournament's top 5 all-time wicket-takers. Ashwin has consistently performed well for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Sydney Thunder performance in the BBL
The Thunder's BBL journey began with great difficulty. They finished bottom in the first three seasons and second bottom in the fourth. Despite the presence of star players, this period was marked by consistently poor performances. The 2015–16 season was nothing short of a fairy tale for the Sydney Thunder. Players like Michael Hussey, Shane Watson, Usman Khawaja, and Jacques Kallis emerged as champions. They finished fourth in the league, but won their first and only title by winning the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
BBL will start from December 14
The BBL begins on December 14th and the final will be held from January 20-25, 2026. Ashwin has signed with the Sydney Thunder, whose general manager is former Australian Test bowler Trent Copeland. The Thunder are coached by England's World Cup-winning coach Trevor Bayliss and captained by David Warner, who led the Thunder to the final last season.
Also Read: India Test squad announced for West Indies tour
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