Experienced Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin failed to attract any bids at the ILT20 Season 4 auction. After retiring from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in August, Ashwin offered his services to overseas leagues, setting a base price of USD 120,000. Despite his extensive experience, no team chose to bid on the veteran player, and he remained unsold.
Ashwin concludes his IPL career with a remarkable legacy. He played 221 matches for five franchises, claiming 187 wickets – the fifth-highest in IPL history. He was part of the Chennai Super Kings’ championship-winning squads in 2010 and 2011. His T20 record is impressive, with 317 wickets from 333 games. In his last IPL auction, he was picked up by CSK for INR 9.75 crore.
Though he was not selected for the ILT20, Ashwin has already secured a contract with the Big Bash League. He is set to represent Sydney Thunder in BBL Season 15, making history as the first Indian men’s international player to join a BBL club. The 38-year-old is expected to join the Thunder in January, with the aim of helping the team achieve success after their final defeat last season against Hobart Hurricanes.
Ashwin shared his excitement about this new venture, praising the Thunder’s management for their communication and leadership. He is looking forward to playing a vital role in their pursuit of victory.
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.”