Ravichandran Ashwin, the legendary Indian spinner, experienced a surprising setback at the ILT20 2026 auction as he went unsold in the first round. The 39-year-old Chennai cricketer, who retired from international cricket in December 2024 and from the IPL in August 2025, entered the auction with a base price of $120,000 but failed to attract a buyer.
Apart from Ashwin, England’s James Anderson, who had a base price of $40,000, and Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir, listed at $80,000, were also left unsold. Ashwin has a prolific T20 career, having played 333 matches in which he has dismissed 317 batters and scored 1,233 runs.
In the IPL, he featured in 221 matches representing five franchises – Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals – from 2009 to 2025, claiming 187 wickets.
His last IPL appearance came on May 20, 2025, in Delhi, where he took 2 wickets for 41 runs in four overs. A key figure in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy victories, Ashwin also played 65 T20Is for India, scoring 184 runs and taking 72 wickets.
New Chapter: Sydney Thunder
Ashwin is set to continue his cricketing journey with Sydney Thunder in the 2025-26 Big Bash League (BBL). The Sydney-based franchise confirmed his signing last month, making him the first Indian cricketer to feature in the BBL.
Ashwin said :
“Thunder was crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. 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. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”
Thunder Excited For Ashwin’s Impact
Sydney Thunder’s General Manager, Trent Copeland, expressed his excitement about Ashwin’s arrival. Copeland said :
“I am so proud that Ashwin has chosen Sydney Thunder. 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. 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. Perhaps most excitingly, Ashwin’s connection with the rapidly growing Indian diaspora in Western Sydney will inspire a new wave of members and fans to join the Thunder Nation. We can’t wait for them to become part of our journey.”
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
