Ashwin BBL Signing 2025: Sydney Thunder Land Indian Off-Spinner in Historic Move
- September 26, 2025
Sydney, September 25, 2025 – Ravichandran Ashwin has made history by signing with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming BBL15, becoming the first Indian male cricketer to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League. The deal is being hailed as a major coup for both Thunder and the league.
From IPL Retirement to Overseas Opportunity
Ashwin had retired from international cricket during the BGT 2024, which came as a surprise to the cricket pundits as the announcement came right in between the series.
Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL earlier in 2025 paved the way for overseas stints. He has also entered the ILT20 auction with the highest base price, confirming his availability for multiple global leagues.
Because the ILT20 runs from December 2 to January 4, Ashwin will miss the opening three weeks of the BBL (starting December 14). He is expected to join Thunder in January, just in time for the business end of the season. With his decision, Ashwin has become the first Indian cricketer in BBL.
The Battle to Sign Ashwin
According to sources, four franchises — Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, and Adelaide Strikers — pitched for Ashwin’s services. Talks were held directly with Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg before Thunder sealed the deal.
The signing was overseen by Trent Copeland, Thunder’s GM and former Australia Test bowler, with Trevor Bayliss (coach) and David Warner (captain) playing key roles. Warner and Ashwin, once fierce rivals, will now share the same dressing room.
“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,” Ashwin said.
Availability & Key Fixtures
Thunder’s home-and-away games run till January 18. Ashwin is likely to be available for 3–4 matches, depending on his ILT20 commitments. This sets up a blockbuster Sydney Smash derby against the Sixers, where Ashwin and Warner could face Steven Smith and Babar Azam.
Spin Factor & Squad Balance
Thunder already boast an impressive spin roster with Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha, and Tom Andrews, alongside overseas Pakistani all-rounder Shadab Khan. Their home venue, Engie Stadium, is known as the most spin-friendly pitch in the BBL.
That depth didn’t deter 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,” said the Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland. “He will bring world-class bowling mid-tournament, while his presence as a leader and mentor will be invaluable.”
Have a look at his interview below in the X video below:
Ashwin's impact won't just be felt on the field in #BBL15 💪 pic.twitter.com/jYE05RgDw1
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) September 26, 2025
Salary & Contract of the first Indian Cricketer in BBL
The BBL’s top overseas salary band is AUD$420,000 (roughly ₹24,37,838). While Ashwin’s per-game pay is expected to be high, it will remain within Thunder’s salary cap. Thunder can overspend by AUD$150,000 this season, provided it’s offset in the next two years.
Ashwin has also signed a marketing agreement with Cricket Australia, not counted in the cap.
Stats That Speak
R Ashwin has a boasting record of 765 international wickets, including 537 in Tests. 221 IPL matches, with 187 wickets. Ashwin is known for tactical brilliance, variations, and leadership.
