Ravichandran Ashwin could reportedly become the first high-profile Indian cricketer to feature in the Big Bash League (BBL), with discussions already underway for the upcoming season of Australia’s premier T20 competition.
According to a report in Cricbuzz, Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg reached out to Ashwin shortly after the veteran off-spinner announced his IPL retirement last week. Ashwin had previously hinted at exploring opportunities in global T20 leagues, and the BBL could mark his first stop as a freelance cricketer.
Greenberg confirmed the approach and admitted to being excited at the prospect of securing a player of Ashwin’s caliber.
“To get someone with Ashwin’s credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels. He’s a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our cricket summer,” Greenberg told Cricbuzz.
While the finer details are yet to be finalised, CA is exploring how Ashwin could be integrated into the tournament, given that most clubs have already spent their salary cap in the draft. A bespoke arrangement-similar to the per-match deals used for David Warner in the past-could be one potential solution.
Speculation suggests Ashwin could be Melbourne-bound, though nothing has been confirmed. His presence would be a major boost for the BBL, which has long struggled to attract marquee overseas stars. An Indian cricketer of Ashwin’s stature, with multiple IPL titles and World Cup victories to his name, would significantly expand the league’s global reach, particularly across South Asia.
