Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin Made history by signing with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming season of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). The announcement is a milestone moment for the league, as Ashwin became the first male Indian international cricketer to feature in BBL since its inception.
Ashwin will join the Thunder Squad in January 2026, which aims to strengthen his campaign and to help secure the continuous appearance in the BBL final. His arrival is described as the largest foreign signatures in the history of Thunder, which create enthusiasm among fans and cricket followers worldwide.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s brilliant career in India and IPL
The 39-year-old off-spinner claims one of the most decorated careers in modern cricket. Over 287 international matches, Ashwin has taken 765 wickets, which includes a notable 537 scalp in Test cricket, she is ranked eighth in the list of all-time Test wickets. He was an important person in India’s victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.
His appreciation included the names of ICC Cricketer of the Year and Test Cricketer of the Year in 2016, and the ICC of the decade (2011-2020) was selected in the men’s Test team.
Ashwin also overtakes an extraordinary record in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he painted in 221 matches in 16 sessions. With 187 wickets, he sits fifth on the all-time IPL wicket chart, while also wins two titles. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) In 2010 and 2011.
After announcing his retirement from both international cricket and IPL recently, Ashwin’s move in BBL is his next big chapter.
Ashwin expresses enthusiasm on joining Sydney Thunder
Speaking about his new challenge, Ashwin expressed his enthusiasm to join the Sydney Thunder and play led by David Warner.
“Thunder Crystals were clear how they would use me and were brave enough to return it. My conversation with the leadership was excellent, and we are completely alliances on their role.
“I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it is always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for Thunder Nation.”
Their words reflect a strong alignment with the vision of the thunder as they see to mix the youth with experience in the upcoming season.
Also Read: BCCI unveiled India’s squad for the Test series against the West Indies; Devdutt Parkal Return
Thunder BBL | 15 trip starts in December
Before Ashwin’s arrival in January 2026, the Sydney Thunder on 16 December with a grand final re-matches against the Hobart storm. Will start 15 campaigns. They would then return home to the Annie Stadium for Sydney Smash against Sydney Sixers on 20 December, set up the stage for another thrilling season.
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