SYDNEY: Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15 with Sydney Thunder following knee surgery, dealing a major blow to both the player and the franchise.
The 38-year-old was set to become the first capped Indian cricketer to play in the BBL, but an unfortunate training injury in Chennai forced him to miss the entire season.
Ashwin confirmed the news on Instagram, saying he was “gutted” to miss the opportunity to make his Big Bash debut.
“I’m gutted to miss BBL|15,” Ashwin said in a statement released by Sydney Thunder.
“My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I’m grateful to the Thunder family and fans for the warmth they’ve shown me. Trent [Copeland] and the management made me feel part of the club from day one.”
The off-spinner added that, depending on his rehab progress, he hopes to join the squad later in the season in a mentoring or ambassadorial role.
Sydney Thunder Reacts to Ashwin’s Injury
Sydney Thunder general manager Trent Copeland expressed his disappointment over the setback but reaffirmed the franchise’s support for Ashwin during his recovery.
“Everyone at Sydney Thunder was devastated to learn of Ash’s knee injury that has ruled him out of BBL|15,” Copeland said.
“From our first conversation, his commitment to Thunder was clear. We’re hopeful he can still be part of the group later in the season, meet fans, and help build a long-term relationship.”
Ashwin’s Overseas Ambition Cut Short
Ashwin’s retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year had opened doors for him to participate in overseas T20 leagues. His signing with Sydney Thunder was viewed as a landmark moment for both Indian and Australian cricket.
The move was facilitated by Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg and BBL chief Alistair Dobson, who were eager to see the Indian legend compete against top names such as David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Babar Azam (who will play for Sydney Sixers).
However, his injury now deprives fans of those much-anticipated clashes.
Thunder to Explore Replacement Options
Ashwin’s absence leaves a void in the Thunder’s spin department, though the squad still boasts strong options with Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha, Pakistan’s Shadab Khan, and Tom Andrews.
The club may consider an injury replacement signing ahead of the season opener on December 14, with the tournament running until January 25, 2026.
A Setback, But Not the End
While the setback has postponed his Big Bash debut, Ashwin remains positive about his recovery and future involvement with Sydney Thunder.
His absence, however, is expected to have a notable impact on both the franchise’s plans and the broader appeal of BBL 15, which was set to witness one of India’s greatest ever bowlers in action for the first time.
