SYDNEY THUNDER are set to announce the signing of Indian cricket legend Ravichandran Ashwin in what is being described as a landmark acquisition for the men in lime green.
As first reported by CODE Sports, the 39-year-old will link up with the Thunder following the conclusion of the International League T20 (ILT20) in early January. Ashwin, who goes under the hammer at next week’s ILT20 Auction, has committed to the full United Arab Emirates tournament, which ends on 4 January.
Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg reportedly approached Ashwin earlier this month to gauge his interest in featuring in the Big Bash, after the veteran off-spinner retired from Test cricket last year and Indian Premier League (IPL) recently. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the deal could be worth around A$1 million (₹5.8 crore) over two years, aligning with Cricket Australia’s broader push for private investment in the league.
Ashwin, the IPL’s fifth-highest wicket-taker with 194 scalps, is expected to be a major drawcard for Australia’s large Indian expat community, boosting both attendances and television viewership.
