Ravichandran Ashwin Withdraws from BBL 2025 Due to Knee Injury: What’s Next for the Star Cricketer?

Ravichandran Ashwin, the renowned former Indian cricketer, has been sidelined from the 2025 Big Bash League due to a knee injury sustained during training. This marks a significant moment as he was set to be the first Indian male player in the league. While Sydney Thunder monitors his recovery, Ashwin expresses his disappointment and commitment to rehabilitation. He hopes to support his team from afar and potentially join later in the season if his health permits. The Thunder's campaign kicks off with a rematch against the Hurricanes on December 16. Read on to learn more about Ashwin's journey and the Thunder's updated squad.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 4, 2025, 14:31 IST

Ashwin's Injury Forces Him Out of BBL 2025

Sydney: Ravichandran Ashwin, the former Indian cricketer, has been officially ruled out of the 2025 Big Bash League due to a knee injury he incurred while training in Chennai, as confirmed by his team, Sydney Thunder.

The 39-year-old off-spin all-rounder was set to make history as the first Indian male cricketer to participate in the Australian league. However, his knee injury has sidelined him, although the franchise will keep a close watch on his recovery to determine if he can join later in the tournament.

In a statement, the franchise expressed, "The significance of Ashwin’s groundbreaking signing will resonate throughout the Thunder Nation, and we are collaborating with him on a modified activity schedule during BBL 15, depending on his recovery progress."

Ashwin shared his disappointment, stating, "While training in Chennai for the upcoming season, I injured my knee. I underwent a procedure, and unfortunately, I will miss BBL 15. It’s hard to accept as I was genuinely looking forward to being part of this team and playing in front of the fans."

He added, "For now, my focus is on rehabilitation and recovery to return stronger. From my initial conversations with the club, I have felt welcomed by Trent, the staff, the players, and many fans who have reached out. Thank you for making me feel at home before the season starts."

Ashwin also mentioned, "I will be following every match and supporting both our men’s and women’s teams. If my rehab and travel align, and if the doctors approve, I would love to visit later in the season to say hello in person. No promises, but that’s my intention."

Earlier this year, Ashwin announced his retirement from the IPL and had committed to playing at least three matches in the latter part of the BBL season for the Thunder. This decision was influenced by his intention to participate in the ILT20, where he had set a maximum base price of $120,000.

However, he went unsold at the ILT20 auction, with no franchises showing interest, making him the first capped Indian to secure a BBL contract.

The Sydney Thunder will kick off their BBL campaign with a rematch against the Hurricanes in Hobart on December 16, followed by the much-anticipated Sydney Smash at ENGIE Stadium on December 20.

The updated Sydney Thunder squad includes Wes Agar, Tom Andrews, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (ENG), Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Shadab Khan (PAK), Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Adian O’Connor, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, and David Warner.