Ravichandran Ashwin is on the verge of becoming the first capped Indian male cricketer to feature in the Big Bash League (BBL), with four franchises competing for his signature. The veteran spinner is expected to join the tournament in its latter stages this season.
Four Teams Compete for Ashwinβs Signature
It is understood that Sydney Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, and Adelaide Strikers are in the race to sign Ashwin. Among them, Thunder and Hurricanes are believed to be leading the chase, with a final decision expected later this week.
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Ashwinβs retirement from the IPL earlier this year has cleared the way for him to explore franchise cricket abroad β something the BCCI only allows for retired players.
Ashwinβs Overseas Commitments
The 37-year-old has already entered the ILT20 auction in the UAE, scheduled for next Tuesday. If picked, he will play the tournament from December 2 to January 4, before potentially joining the BBL from mid-January.
The BBL runs from December 14 to January 25, meaning Ashwin could be available for three to four league matches and possibly the finals.
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BBLβs Overseas Rules and Exemptions
Each BBL side can only field three overseas players in their XI, though they can sign up to seven, including replacements. Ashwin didnβt nominate for the draft earlier due to his IPL career, but league rules allow exemptions if circumstances change β a precedent set by Martin Guptill and Nat Sciver-Brunt in past seasons.
Cricket Australia is also expected to back the move with a special marketing agreement, ensuring Ashwinβs arrival benefits the league without breaching salary cap limits.
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