Insisting on the mental clarity and alignment of thoughts with skipper David Warner, Ravichandran Ashwin on Thursday became the first capped Indian male cricketer to sign with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL).
While several India women’s cricketers have played in the WBBL, BCCI rules had until now prevented India men from joining overseas leagues. Only former India Under-19 captain Unmukt Chand, now a USA player, and domestic cricketer Nikhil Chaudhary, who qualifies as a local in Australia, have previously appeared in the BBL.
Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL earlier this year cleared the path for overseas stints. He has already entered next week’s ILT20 auction at the highest base price. His ILT20 commitments from December 2 to January 4 mean he will miss the first three weeks of the BBL, which starts on December 14.
Despite the clash, Cricket Australia and multiple clubs pursued Ashwin. After talks with CEO Todd Greenberg and BBL executives, Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers all made pitches. Thunder eventually secured him, with general manager Trent Copeland brokering the deal.
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it,” Ashwin said.
“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,” he added.
Thunder, coached by Trevor Bayliss and captained by Warner, reached last season’s final. Ashwin could feature in up to three of their last four league games in January, depending on his ILT20 commitments. His availability raises the prospect of a Sydney derby showdown against Sixers stars Steven Smith and Babar Azam.
Thunder already have Sam Billings, Lockie Ferguson and Shadab Khan as overseas signings, plus three local spinners in Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha and Tom Andrews. Engie Stadium, their home venue, is one of the most spin-friendly in the BBL.
“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,” Copeland said. “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.”