Ravichandran Ashwin's Big Bash League Debut on Hold Due to Knee Surgery

Ashwin's Setback Before BBL Season

Renowned Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will not be able to make his debut in the Big Bash League (BBL) with Sydney Thunder this season due to knee surgery. Expressing his disappointment, Ashwin mentioned he is 'gutted' to miss this opportunity, which would have marked him as the first Indian player in the BBL.

Availability After IPL Retirement

After retiring from the lucrative Indian Premier League, Ashwin was set to join overseas franchise leagues. He had committed to the full BBL season after not securing a bid in the ILT20 auction. He expressed a desire to play later in the season, contingent on his rehabilitation and travel arrangements.

Ashwin's Heartfelt Message to Thunder Supporters

"I’m devastated to miss BBL|15. My priority now is to recover and return stronger. I appreciate the Thunder family and fans for their warm welcome. From our first conversation, Trent Copeland and the management made me feel like part of the team," Ashwin stated in a message to Thunder fans.

"I will be following every match and supporting both our men's and women's teams. If my recovery and travel plans align, and if the doctors approve, I would love to join the group later in the season and meet the fans. Wishing both Thunder teams a successful year," he added.

Thunder Management's Response

Trent Copeland, the General Manager of Sydney Thunder, expressed the team's disappointment regarding Ashwin's injury. "We were all saddened to hear about Ash's knee injury that has sidelined him for BBL|15, and we wish him a speedy recovery. His commitment to Thunder was evident from our initial discussions. We hope to have him join us later in the season and engage with our fans at events, fostering a long-term relationship," Copeland remarked.

"Although this is disappointing for the club, we have assembled two championship-caliber squads and are eager to continue our progress from recent seasons in WBBL|11 and BBL|15. We look forward to returning to our fans in Western Sydney for two exciting campaigns," he concluded.

Impact on Upcoming Matches

Due to this recent injury, Ashwin will also miss the Hong Kong Super Sixes, which are set to begin on November 7. Sydney Thunder now has the option to recruit an injury replacement; however, their spin department remains robust with players like Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha, Shadab Khan from Pakistan, and Tom Andrews already on the roster.