Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was not picked up in the ILT20 Season 4 auction. After announcing his departure from the Indian Premier League in August, Ashwin made himself available for overseas leagues, setting his base price at USD 120,000. However, none of the six franchises placed a bid on him, leading to him remaining unsold.
Ashwin concludes his IPL journey as one of the league’s most celebrated cricketers. He played in 221 games for five different teams, taking 187 wickets, the fifth-highest total in IPL history. He was a member of the Chennai Super Kings’ championship-winning teams in both 2010 and 2011. His overall T20 record includes 317 wickets from 333 matches. During his last IPL auction appearance, he was acquired by CSK for INR 9.75 crore.
While he did not get selected for the ILT20, Ashwin has already been signed by the Big Bash League. He will represent Sydney Thunder in BBL Season 15, marking his debut as the first Indian men’s international player to join a club in the tournament. The 38-year-old is expected to join the Thunder in January, with the aim of helping the team secure victory after their final loss to the Hobart Hurricanes last season.
Ashwin shared his excitement about this new challenge. He commended the Thunder’s management for their excellent communication and leadership, and he anticipates making a substantial contribution toward the team’s success.
Ashwin commented: “Thunder was crystal clear about how they would use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we are fully aligned on my role. I love how David Warner (the Sydney Thunder captain) plays the game, and it is always better when your leader shares your mindset. I cannot wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”