Ravichandran Ashwin, the experienced Indian off-spinner, went unsold in the ILT20 Season 4 auction. Following his IPL retirement announcement in August, Ashwin entered the overseas league auction with a base price of USD 120,000. Despite his significant contributions and experience, no franchise placed a bid, resulting in him not being selected.
Ashwin leaves the IPL as one of its most accomplished players. Across 221 matches across five franchises, he took 187 wickets, placing him fifth in the all-time wickets taken list. He was a key member of Chennai Super Kings’ championship squads in 2010 and 2011. His overall T20 record is impressive, with 317 wickets in 333 games. In his final IPL auction, he was secured by CSK for INR 9.75 crore.
Despite not being selected in the ILT20, Ashwin has already signed a contract with the Big Bash League. He will be playing for Sydney Thunder in BBL Season 15, making him the first Indian male international player to join a club in the tournament. The 38-year-old is anticipated to join the Thunder in January, hoping to assist the team in recovering from their loss in last season’s final against the Hobart Hurricanes.
Ashwin has expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge, praising Thunder’s management for their communication and leadership, and looking forward to playing a significant part in their pursuit of success.
Ashwin stated, “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.”