Historic Move! Ravichandran Ashwin Joins Sydney Thunder in BBL – Set for Epic Clash with Smith & Babar

Ravichandran Ashwin Creates History with Big Bash League Signing

Indian cricket stalwart Ravichandran Ashwin has etched his name into the history books by becoming the first-ever Indian cricketer to sign a Big Bash League (BBL) contract. The veteran off-spinner has officially joined Sydney Thunder for the 2025 season, marking a landmark moment not just for the club but also for Indian representation in one of the world’s most competitive T20 leagues.

Ashwin will be available for Thunder after completing his stint in the International League T20 (ILT20), which wraps up on January 4, 2025. The announcement was confirmed by Sydney Thunder on Wednesday, with fans across Australia and India buzzing with excitement.

Welcome to Western Sydney, @ashwinravi99 ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/RaIvaVUgAf

— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) September 25, 2025

Thunder Call It the “Biggest Signing in BBL History”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland hailed the signing as a game-changing moment for the franchise and the league.

“I think it’s arguably the biggest signing in BBL history – first Indian legend and an icon of the game,” Copeland said.

He further revealed Ashwin’s genuine interest in mentoring young Thunder players:

“One of the most impressive things was that before I even mentioned our club, Ashwin spoke about Sam Billings’ impact last season and how he wants to guide players like Tanveer Sangha and Chris Green. That tells you the kind of professional and leader he is.”

Ashwin Excited to Join Hands with David Warner

For Ashwin, the Thunder project stood out due to clarity and leadership. He spoke glowingly about his conversations with the team management and his upcoming partnership with Thunder captain David Warner.

“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,” Ravichandran Ashwin said.

He added:

“I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”

This Ashwin–Warner partnership could turn out to be one of the most talked-about player combinations of the season.

Ashwin’s Likely Fixtures in BBL 2025

Based on the BBL schedule, Ravichandran Ashwin is expected to feature in at least the last four league matches for Sydney Thunder:

• January 6: Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers
• January 10: Thunder vs Brisbane Heat
• January 12: Thunder vs Melbourne Renegades
• January 16: Thunder vs Sydney Sixers

The final league match against Sydney Sixers could set up an electrifying showdown, with Steve Smith and Babar Azam likely to feature for the Sixers. Cricket fans may witness Ashwin bowling to two of the modern greats on the BBL stage.

Why This Move Matters for Indian Cricket

Ashwin’s signing is more than just a franchise addition — it’s a milestone. The BBL has long been one of the premier T20 tournaments globally, but Indian participation has been absent due to restrictions from the BCCI. Ashwin breaking through that barrier as the first Indian cricketer in BBL history highlights his global stature and could open doors for more Indian stars to explore opportunities in leagues abroad.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s arrival at Sydney Thunder has already created ripples in world cricket. His experience, competitive mindset, and mentorship skills promise to elevate the Thunder squad, while his presence in the BBL will add a historic chapter to the league’s journey. Fans worldwide now eagerly await to see Ashwin don the Thunder jersey and potentially go head-to-head with the likes of Smith and Babar in a blockbuster clash.