Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of the upcoming Big Bash League 2025-26 season due to knee injury. Ashwin took to his social media platform to reveal the news. The former off-spinner had become the first Indian capped player to sign in the BBL when he was roped in by Sydney Thunder.

Ashwin revealed he had hurt his knee while training in Chennai and would not be part of the team. The all-rounder had committed to play the entire season of the 15th edition of the BBL after he went unsold in the ILT20 auction.

“I’m gutted to miss BBL|15,” Ashwin was quoted as saying in a Thunder statement. “My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I’m grateful to the Thunder family and the fans for the warmth they’ve already shown me. Trent [Copeland, Thunder general manager] and the entire management made me feel part of the club from our very first conversation.

“If rehab and travel plans allow, I’d love to be around the group later in the season and meet the fans. Wishing both Thunder teams a big year.”

General manager of Sydney Thunder, Trent Copeland, said everyone is devastated to learn about Ashwin’s injury.

“Everyone at Sydney Thunder was devastated to learn of Ash’s knee injury that has ruled him out of BBL|15, and we wish him well in his recovery,” Copeland said. “From the moment we first spoke with Ash, his commitment to Thunder was clear. We are hopeful of welcoming him into our dugout for part of BBL|15, introducing him to our fans at events and building a long-term relationship. While disappointing for the club, we have built two championship-contending squads and expect to continue the progress of recent seasons in WBBL|11 and BBL|15.”

BBL 2025-26 will run from December 14 until January 25.