Former India cricketer R Ashwin has withdrawn from the Big Bash League 15 due to a knee injury sustained while training in Chennai. On Tuesday, November 4, the off-spinner confirmed the news in a social media post. He was scheduled to become the first Indian men's player to play in the BBL.
Ashwin retired from international cricket mid-way through India’s tour of Australia earlier this year. He also retired from the Indian Premier League soon after the IPL 2025 season with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
R Ashwin has contracted to play for the Sydney Thunder for the entire BBL 15 season, which begins on December 14. The off-spinner hinted at joining the franchise in the second half of the season, which runs until January 25, 2026, assuming he fully recovers from the most recent injury setback.
"While training in Chennai to prepare for the upcoming season, I hurt my knee. I've had a procedure, and the outcome means I will miss BBL/15. That is tough to say. I was genuinely excited to be part of this group and play in front of you.
For now, it is rehab, recovery, and doing the work to come back stronger. From my first chat with the club, I have felt only warmth from Trent, the staff, the players, and so many of you who have already reached out. Thank you for making me feel at home before a ball has been bowled.
I will be watching every game and cheering for both our women's and men's teams. If rehab and travel line up, and only if the doctors are happy, I would love to be around later in the season and say hello in person. No promises. That is the intent," Ashwin posted on his social media.
Meanwhile, Trent Copeland, Sydney Thunder General Manager, also commented on the news of Ashwin pulling out of BBL 15.
"Everyone at Sydney Thunder was devastated to learn of Ash's knee injury that has ruled him out of BBL|15, and we wish him well in his recovery. From the moment we first spoke with Ash, his commitment to Thunder was clear. We are hopeful of welcoming him into our dugout for part of BBL|15, introducing him to our fans at events, and building a long-term relationship.
While disappointing for the club, we have built two championship-contending squads and expect to continue the progress of recent seasons in WBBL|11 and BBL|15. We can't wait to get back in front of our fans in Western Sydney for two massive campaigns,” Copeland stated as per ESPNCricinfo.
