The cricket world may soon see something never witnessed before- a big Indian star walking out in the Big Bash League.
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s finest spinners of the modern era, is in early talks to play the 2025/26 edition of Australia’s premier T20 competition.
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If this move goes through, it would be a ground-breaking moment for both the BBL and Indian cricket.
Is Ashwin really in talks with Cricket Australia?
Yes. As per a Cricbuzz report, Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has already spoken to Ashwin. The discussion started right after the veteran spinner announced his IPL retirement.
Ashwin had also mentioned he wanted to “explore cricket in different leagues,” and the BBL could well be his very first stop in this new journey.
Greenberg expressed excitement about the possibility, calling Ashwin a “champion cricketer” who would add huge value to the tournament.
Right now, CA is figuring out the logistics, including how many matches he can play and which franchise might sign him. There are even whispers that Melbourne could be his destination if the deal happens.
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Why would Ashwin’s arrival be a big deal for the BBL?
For years, the BBL has struggled to attract the absolute biggest names in world cricket. While it remains popular in Australia, the competition has often been compared unfavorably to the IPL.
Having someone like Ashwin, a World Cup winner and a senior international player, would completely change that picture.
Not only would it bring massive South Asian viewership, but it could also make the BBL more appealing to investors and sponsors.
CA has been open about wanting the league to stand alongside the IPL as a top-tier global T20 event, and signing Ashwin could be a turning point.
How many Indians have featured in the BBL before?
Surprisingly, only one. Unmukt Chand, the former U-19 World Cup-winning captain, played for Melbourne Renegades in 2022.
He retired from Indian cricket before that move, as BCCI rules prevent active Indian players from participating in foreign leagues.
Chand’s BBL stint was short, just two matches, but it was historic as the first time an Indian cricketer stepped into the competition.
If Ashwin now follows, the contrast will be massive because of his seniority, reputation, and global fan following.