Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin has agreed to join the Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season, marking a significant acquisition for the club. Ashwin, who recently retired from Tests and the Indian Premier League, will become the first high-profile Indian player to feature in the Australian T20 tournament.
The 39-year-old off-spinner will join the Thunder after the conclusion of the ILT20 tournament in early January, committing to the entirety of the United Arab Emirates competition. This move comes after Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg reached out to Ashwin to gauge his interest in playing in the Big Bash.
Ashwin, the IPL’s fifth-leading wicket-taker of all time, will bring a wealth of experience and skill to the Thunder squad. His presence is expected to attract a significant following from Australia’s Indian expat community, potentially boosting ticket sales and television ratings.
To participate in the Big Bash, Ashwin will need an exemption from CA as he did not register for the overseas player draft. The Thunder have already secured the services of international players Lockie Ferguson and Shadab Khan, along with English wicketkeeper Sam Billings.
Ashwin will join a spin-heavy Thunder squad, adding depth to their bowling attack. Fans can look forward to seeing him in action in a highly anticipated Sydney derby against the Sixers on January 16. The 15th edition of the BBL is set to kick off on December 14.
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