Ravichandran Ashwin to feature in Big Bash League 2026 - Reports

India's former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is all set to feature in the upcoming season of the Big Bash League (BBL). As per Cricbuzz, Ashwin is most likely to play in the BBL 2026 and will be the first Indian player to feature in the tournament. Undoubtedly one of the best T20 leagues in the world, BBL is organised every year by Cricket Australia. 

Many players from all around the world come together to play the league but so far, an Indian has never been a part of the tournament. However, after a conversation with Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg, it's almost certain that Ashwin might play in the tournament. Interestingly, he might get a chance to feature in the next season as well. 

"To get someone with Ashwin’s credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels. He’s a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our cricket summer," Greenberg told Cricbuzz. 

Meanwhile, Ashwin announced his retirement from Test cricket during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia. He continued to play in the IPL but a few days back he retired from the tournament as well. After playing for 16 seasons straight, the veteran played felt the need to leave the league. 

However, that doesn't mean he is ready to stay away from cricket. Interestingly, Ashwin is interested to play in the other T20 leagues that are happening around the world. Moreover, as per BCCI's rules, a player cannot participate in any other league outside the country until and unless the player is retired. Hence, Ashwin's decision looks like a calculated one. 

The player has an ample amount of knowledge about the game and the experience of all these years will help him perform well in the other leagues as well. It will be intriguing to watch him choose a league to start with in the first place.