Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is on the verge of making history by becoming the first capped Indian male cricketer to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). Reports suggest that as many as four clubs — Sydney Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, and Adelaide Strikers — have shown interest in signing him for the upcoming season.
Among them, Sydney Thunder and Hobart Hurricanes are considered the frontrunners, with a deal expected to be finalized soon.
Ashwin has already confirmed his participation in the ILT20 auction in the UAE scheduled for October 1. The ILT20 will run from December 2, 2025, to January 4, 2026, while the BBL season begins on December 14, 2025, and concludes on January 25, 2026.
Also see: Ravi Ashwin to Represent India at Hong Kong Cricket Sixes 2025
Despite the overlapping schedules, reports indicate that Ashwin is expected to feature in both leagues, potentially joining a BBL team for the final stages of the tournament and the playoffs.
The BCCI only permits retired Indian players to participate in overseas franchise leagues. With Ashwin announcing his retirement from the IPL earlier this year, he is now eligible to explore international franchise opportunities.
Several Indian cricketers have already played abroad after retirement:
- Dinesh Karthik in SA20 (Paarl Royals)
- Ambati Rayudu in CPL (St Kitts & Nevis Patriots) and ILT20 (MI Emirates)
- Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan in ILT20
- Suresh Raina in Abu Dhabi T10 (Deccan Gladiators)
Ashwin’s BBL signing, however, will be a first for a capped Indian male player, making it a landmark moment.
Also see: Dinesh Karthik named India captain for Hong Kong Sixes 2025
Each BBL team can field a maximum of three overseas players in their playing XI. While most squads have already filled these spots via the overseas draft, they are allowed to sign up to four additional replacement players. This gives teams the flexibility to bring Ashwin in as a replacement during the latter half of the season.
Marketing agreements with Cricket Australia could also play a role in easing his signing, ensuring Ashwin’s inclusion without breaching salary cap restrictions.
After retiring from international and IPL cricket, Ashwin’s move to the BBL and ILT20 marks the start of a new chapter in his career. Known for his tactical brilliance and variations, he remains a top draw in T20 cricket worldwide.
Ravichandran Ashwin expected signing in the Big Bash League 2025-26 is not just a personal milestone but also a landmark moment in Indian cricket history. As the first capped Indian male cricketer to play in the BBL, his presence is set to boost the league’s profile while opening the door for more Indian players to participate in global franchise cricket after retirement.
