Former bowling great Ravichandran Ashwin joined Sydney Thunder for the BBL 2025-2026, he will become the first capped Indian male to play the Big Bash League. He will travel to Australia after participating in the inaugural auction of ILT20 in December. 

Earlier this year, Ashwin retired from IPL after a charming career which spanned 17 years. He bid adieu to international cricket in December 2024 during the Australia series. Ashwin's addition to Thunder's squad will be a huge boost as he carries immense experience with 317 wickets under his belt.