<h2>R Ashwin Makes BBL History After Signing with Sydney Thunder - Three Point Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>-Legendary Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin becomes the first capped Indian player to join the Big Bash League, signing with Sydney Thunder</p> <p>-The 39-year-old will feature in the second half of BBL|15 and finals if Thunder qualify, following his retirement from both international and IPL cricket.&nbsp;</p> <p>-Ashwin's arrival marks a historic moment for the BBL, with the spinner bringing 187 IPL wickets and extensive T20 experience to Australian shores</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The Big Bash League is set to welcome its biggest overseas signing yet in BBL|15, with legendary Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to become the first capped Indian player to feature in the franchise tournament down under.&nbsp;</p> <p>The 39-year-old officially confirmed his landmark signing with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season in a move that is set to turbocharge this year's competition and continue the league’s resurgence.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Historic BBL Signing Breaks New Ground</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The legendary off-spinner's confirmation represents a watershed moment for the Big Bash League, as Ashwin becomes only the second Indian player ever to feature in the competition. Unmukt Chand previously played for Melbourne Renegades during the 2021/22 season, though he was uncapped at the international level.</p> <p>Ashwin's availability stems from his retirement from international cricket during last year's Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The Tamil Nadu spinner also stepped away from the IPL in August, describing his intention to become "an explorer of the game" - a decision that has opened doors to overseas T20 leagues previously unavailable to active Indian internationals.</p> <p>The 39-year-old will join Thunder for the second half of BBL|15, with his involvement extending to finals should the franchise qualify. Thunder have reached the playoffs in five of the past six seasons, making finals cricket a realistic prospect for the veteran spinner.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Ashwin's T20 Credentials Remain Elite</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Despite his age, Ashwin brings formidable T20 credentials to the Big Bash League. Across 16 IPL seasons, he claimed 187 wickets, ranking fifth all-time in the competition's history. His variations, tactical acumen, and ability to bowl in different phases make him a valuable asset for Thunder's title aspirations.</p> <p>The off-spinner expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with captain David Warner, who enters his second season leading the Sydney-based franchise. Ashwin praised Thunder's clear communication about his role and their alignment on the tactical approach.</p> <p>"Thunder were crystal clear about how they'd use me and brave enough to back it," Ashwin stated. "My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we're fully aligned on my role. I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it's always better when your leader shares your mindset."</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>When Does the Big Bash League Season Start?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The 15th edition of the Big Bash League will commence on December 14, with Perth Scorchers hosting Sydney Sixers at Optus Stadium. Ashwin's involvement represents part of Thunder's continued efforts to strengthen their squad following consecutive playoff appearances.</p> <p>Warner's leadership and Ashwin's experience create an intriguing combination for Thunder supporters. The partnership between Australia's explosive opener and India's crafty spinner adds tactical depth to a franchise consistently competitive in recent seasons.</p> <p>Ashwin's signing demonstrates the BBL's growing appeal to international stars, particularly those seeking opportunities beyond traditional T20 strongholds. His decision to explore cricket's global landscape benefits both the competition's profile and Thunder's championship ambitions.</p> <p>The veteran spinner concluded his announcement with characteristic confidence: "I can't wait to perform for the Thunder Nation." With Thunder's strong recent playoff record and Ashwin's proven T20 success, BBL|15 promises compelling cricket when action begins this December.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Twenty20 Big Bash League 2025/26 Winner Betting Odds:</h2>