R Ashwin gears up for new overseas challenge – major update revealed

NEW DELHI: Ravichandran Ashwin’s second innings in cricket is beginning to take shape, and it promises to be as busy as his international career once was. The legendary off-spinner, who retired from the IPL last month after calling time on international cricket in 2024, is all set for a rare double stint — featuring in both the ILT20 in the UAE and the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia.

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What was once seen as a choice between the two tournaments is now shaping into a twin assignment. As per a Cricbuzz report, Ashwin has registered for the ILT20 auction on October 1, with multiple BBL franchises also vying for his services. Both Sydney outfits — Sixers and Thunder — along with Hobart Hurricanes and Adelaide Strikers, have expressed strong interest.


“I have registered for the auction. Hopefully, one of the six franchises will be interested in bidding for me,” Ashwin said, confirming his ILT20 participation.


The 39-year-old is expected to begin in the UAE, where the ILT20 runs from December 2 to January 4, before flying to Australia for the BBL, which runs until January 25. The tight scheduling means he will not be available for the entire season in Australia, but his presence is still seen as a marquee addition.

With his IPL retirement freeing him from BCCI restrictions, Ashwin has opened the door to other overseas leagues too, including Major League Cricket (USA) and The Hundred (UK).

Before those commitments, he will also represent India at the Hong Kong Sixes from November 7-9, adding star value to the side. “This format requires a different strategy and will prove to be high octane,” Ashwin said.

For one of India’s greatest spinners, the next chapter looks set to be global, high-profile, and action-packed.

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