The esteemed Indian slow bowler, Ravichandran Ashwin, is poised to create a buzz as he prepares for his inaugural Big Bash League (BBL) season with Sydney Thunder, spearheaded by David Warner. Originally, Ashwin had intended to participate in a limited number of matches due to prior obligations in the ILT20, but subsequent to not being picked up in the Dubai auction, he has committed to playing the entirety of the 2025/26 season, thereby becoming the first Indian male cricketer to feature in the league.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s Big Bash League debut
The two-time IPL champion brings unparalleled experience, having accumulated close to 600 Test wickets and demonstrated mastery across all formats of the sport. Former India coach Ravi Shastri, during Kayo Sports event, lauded Ashwin’s dedication, remarking, “This marks the first instance of an Indian player joining, which is significant. Moreover, he is not just any Indian player; he is someone who has secured nearly 600 wickets (in Tests). He is an enthusiast who enjoys playing…I have engaged with him, and he is committed to playing the entire Big Bash season this time.” His presence is set to infuse quality, thrill, and sophisticated strategy into Australia’s premier T20 competition.
Sydney Thunder will lean on Ashwin’s expertise as they commence their season, with his return to Adelaide scheduled for January 6, allowing adequate time for adaptation and impactful performance. His debut signifies not just a personal achievement but also a historical milestone for Indian cricket’s influence on international T20 leagues.
Ravi Shastri sends stern warning to Batters ahead of Ashwin’s first BBL season
Ravi Shastri expressed candidly what opponents should anticipate from Ashwin in the BBL. Celebrated for his keen cricketing acumen and precision, Ashwin has already established himself as a masterful tactician at the non-striker’s end. Shastri cautioned, “Remain within your crease. He will run you out. That is the primary message. Avoid attempting to steal a run, as he will remove the bails, justifiably.”
This caution is substantial. Ashwin famously executed a run-out of Jos Buttler in a 2019 IPL match when Buttler prematurely left the crease, sparking debates on the “spirit of cricket” while strictly adhering to the rules of the game. His strategic insight, coupled with his spin expertise, renders him a formidable figure in the BBL, compelling every batter to carefully consider their actions.
Ashwin’s BBL venture follows his departure from the IPL in August 2025, which liberated him from BCCI obligations and enabled him to pursue overseas opportunities. While Unmukt Chand previously represented India in the BBL, Ashwin is the first Test legend to enhance the league, contributing stature and superior expertise to Australia’s T20 arena.
