Ravichandran Ashwin becomes first Indian to join Australia’s BBL

India’s former player Ravichandran Ashwin has joined the Australia’s Thunder, becoming the first Indian player to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).

The Indian cricketing body (BCCI) does not allow any current player representing the national team of the country to participate in overseas leagues. However, Ravichandran Ashwin retired in December at a time when India were touring Australia for Test.

Meanwhile, he stepped away from the Indian Premier League in August, which now allows him the freedom to be “an explorer of the game around various leagues.”

“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it,” said the 39-year-old in a statement.

“My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role.”

Ashwin will be available from early January, joining David Warner as Sydney Thunder aim for back-to-back BBL finals.

“I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset,” he added.

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Ashwin, who represented five IPL franchises, ended his India career with 537 wickets in 106 Tests at an average of 24.00. He also played 116 One-Day Internationals and 65 Twenty20 Internationals.

“From the first time we spoke, Ashwin impressed everyone at the Thunder with his passion, desire to win, and understanding of what makes our club special,” said Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland.

“He will bring an injection of fresh energy and world-class bowling mid-tournament, while his presence as a leader and mentor will be invaluable for our young players.”

The India player became 17th player who has been signed by Thunder with league rules limiting clubs to 18 players per squad.

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Ferguson has been signed on the top overseas salary band in the BBL, worth AUD $420,000. In contrast, Ashwin may receive a high per-game rate that still fits within the Thunder’s overall salary cap.