R Ashwin’s BBL Dream Shattered: Veteran Indian Star Ruled Out After Painful Knee Injury
Ashwin exits BBL 2025-26 after a knee injury during training in Chennai.
In a major setback for fans and the Sydney Thunder franchise, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of the Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15 due to a knee injury. The 39-year-old announced the heartbreaking news through a personal note on social media, confirming that he had undergone a medical procedure and would miss the entirety of the upcoming tournament.
Ashwin, who was set to create history as the first Indian male cricketer to feature in the BBL, expressed deep disappointment over the turn of events. “While training in Chennai to prepare for the upcoming season, I hurt my knee. I’ve had a procedure, and unfortunately, the outcome means I will miss BBL|15,” he wrote. The star spinner also thanked the Sydney Thunder management, players, and fans for their support, promising to focus on his recovery and return stronger.
The Sydney Thunder franchise had signed Ashwin for a full season, counting on his experience and all-round skill to strengthen their campaign. Sources within the team management revealed that the franchise hopes he may rejoin in the later stages if medical reports are favorable. Should his rehabilitation progress well, Ashwin could still make a surprise comeback during the tail end of the season.
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Ashwin had announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League earlier this year, signaling his intent to explore international T20 leagues. He was initially expected to feature in the ILT20 as well, with a base price of USD 120,000, but went unsold in the auction, paving the way for his landmark BBL signing. The veteran off-spinner’s move had generated immense interest among both Indian and Australian cricket fans.
Sydney Thunder will now begin their campaign without the Indian off-spin ace, opening their season with a high-voltage clash against Hobart Hurricanes on December 16 in Hobart. The team then returns to ENGIE Stadium for the highly anticipated Sydney Smash on December 20. With Ashwin out, the Thunder’s bowling department faces a strategic reshuffle as they aim to begin the season on a strong note despite the setback.
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