Former India R Ashwin has withdrawn from Big Bash League 15 due to a knee injury he picked up while training in Chennai. The off-spinner, who was set to become the first men’s cricketer from India to play in the BBL, confirmed the news in a social media post on Tuesday, November 4.
R Ashwin signed to play for the Sydney Thunder for the whole of BBL 15, starting December 14. The off-spinner hinted at joining the franchise in the latter half of the season, which runs until January 25, 2026, provided he fully recovers from the latest 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,” Ashwin wrote.
“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 al-ready 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,” he added.
Ashwin retired from international cricket midway during India’s tour of Australia last year, calling time on his Test, ODI and T20I careers. The off-spinner announced his retirement from IPL earlier this year, ending his stint with Chennai Super Kings.
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