Ravichandran Ashwin Likely to Join Australia’s BBL After Retiring from Indian Premier League

Advertisment

Ravichandran Ashwin is planning his move to the Big Bash League (BBL), an Australian cricket tournament similar to the Indian Premier League (IPL). BBL started in 2011, four years after the IPL tournament was started in India. Ashwin recently announced his retirement from the IPL and expressed interest in exploring different leagues around the world. 

Ashwin in Talks for his Notable Debut in BBL

R Ashwin’s decision to retire from the IPL has shocked several Indian cricket fans. This announcement has started to trend as fans anticipate his next move. The Indian off-spinner has also shared his willingness to play in other cricket leagues around the world.

Some sources have suggested that Ashwin will likely play in Australia's Big Bash League. While other reports have hinted at his debut in The Hundred in England or the International League T20 in the UAE, their sources are anonymous. 

Advertisment

Apart from these reports, a report from Cricbuzz claimed that the off-spinner might become the “first high-profile Indian cricketer” to play in Australia’s Big Bash League. The report said Ashwin might join the BBL from the upcoming season.

Ashwin posted the following on ‘X’, “My time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today.”

What did Cricket Australia CEO Say?

According to the Cricbuzz report, Todd Greenburg, Cricket Australia (CA) CEO, is in discussion with Ravichandran Ashwin about his role in the upcoming BBL seasons. These discussions began as soon as the Indian off-spinner announced his retirement from the IPL.

Advertisment

Greenberg said, “Getting someone with Ashwin’s credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at many levels. He’s a champion cricketer who will bring much to the Big Bash League and our cricket summer.” He also shared about Ashwin’s willingness to pursue a coaching role. However, it was not clearly mentioned which of the eight clubs he would join.

After the IPL retirement, Ashwin has been linked with many franchises worldwide. He was also absent from the auction list of SA20 2026. However, he previously said he could play in two to three leagues. While there are strong clues that R Ashwin might be a part of the Big Bash League, he is also rumored to be participating in The Hundred in England or the International League T20 in the UAE.