R Ashwin Becomes First Indian International to Join BBL, Signs with Sydney Thunder
R Ashwin signs with Sydney Thunder, becoming the first Indian international to play in the Big Bash League.
Sydney Thunder have created history by signing R Ashwin, making him the first Indian international cricketer to join a Big Bash League (BBL) club.
The 39-year-old off-spinner, who recently retired from international cricket and the IPL, will link up with Thunder in early January as the side pushes for back-to-back BBL Finals.
Ashwin’s career numbers speak volumes. He has taken 765 wickets across formats for India, including 537 in Tests, placing him eighth on the all-time list. A World Cup 2011 and Champions Trophy 2013 winner, he was also named ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2016 and included in the ICC Men’s Test Team of the Decade (2011–20).
In the IPL, Ashwin turned out in 221 matches across five franchises, collecting 187 wickets and winning two titles with Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011. He sits fifth on the tournament’s all-time wicket-takers list.
Speaking on his BBL move, Ashwin said his role with Thunder was “clearly defined” and praised skipper David Warner’s leadership style.
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role. I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation,” Ashwin said.
Thunder GM Trent Copeland welcomed the signing, highlighting Ashwin’s passion, winning mentality, and the inspiration he will provide to Western Sydney’s Indian diaspora.
“I am so proud that Ashwin has chosen Sydney Thunder. From the first time we spoke, Ashwin impressed everyone at the Thunder with his passion, desire to win and understanding of what makes our club special. He will bring an injection of fresh energy and world-class bowling mid-tournament, while his presence as a leader and mentor will be invaluable for our young players.
“Perhaps most excitingly, Ashwin’s connection with the rapidly growing Indian diaspora in Western Sydney will inspire a new wave of members and fans to join the Thunder Nation. We can’t wait for them to become part of our journey.”
Thunder begin their campaign against the Hobart Hurricanes on December 16, before hosting the high-profile Sydney Smash on December 20.
Sydney Thunder Squad (To Date):
Wes Agar, Tom Andrews, Ravichandran Ashwin (IND), Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (ENG) Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Shadab Khan (PAK), Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, David Warner
