SYDNEY – Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) after undergoing knee surgery, ending his chances of becoming the first Indian international to feature in the popular Twenty20 competition.
The 39-year-old, who had signed with Sydney Thunder in September, expressed disappointment over the setback. “I’m gutted to miss BBL. My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I’m grateful to the Thunder family and the fans for the warmth they’ve already shown me,” Ashwin said in a statement.
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) traditionally bars active Indian players—those still part of domestic or international cricket—from playing in overseas leagues. However, Ashwin’s participation was possible after he retired from international cricket in December during India’s tour of Australia and withdrew from the IPL in August.
Sydney Thunder’s general manager Trent Copeland said the franchise was saddened by the news. “Everyone at Sydney Thunder was devastated to learn of Ash’s knee injury that has ruled him out of BBL, and we wish him well in his recovery,” he said.
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One of India’s most successful bowlers, Ashwin claimed 537 wickets in 106 Tests at an average of 24.00. He also represented India in 116 One-Day Internationals and 65 T20 Internationals, besides playing for five IPL franchises during his career. The 2025 Big Bash League is scheduled to begin on December 14.