Ashwin goes unsold in ILT20 2026 auction
Ravichandran Ashwin went unsold in the first round of the ILT20 2026 auction held in Dubai, in what marks a surprising development in the veteran spinner’s post-IPL career. According to multiple reports, the 39-year-old — who retired from international cricket in December 2024 and from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in August 2025 — had entered the auction with a base price of $120,000 – the highest in the tournament. Despite his experience and record, none of the franchises placed a bid for him during the initial round.
Ashwin was not the only big name to go unsold. England’s James Anderson, listed at a base price of $40,000, and Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir, at $80,000, also failed to secure deals. However, unsold players may still be picked up in the accelerated phase later in the day.
In a career spanning 333 T20 matches, Ashwin has taken 317 wickets and scored 1,233 runs. For India, he played 65 T20Is, claiming 72 wickets and scoring 184 runs. His IPL record includes 221 matches across five franchises — Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals — collecting 187 wickets. His last IPL appearance came in Delhi on May 20, 2025, where he took 2 wickets for 41 runs in four overs.
Retirement opens door for overseas leagues
Ashwin’s ILT20 appearance would have been his first overseas T20 league since retiring from IPL cricket. Under Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules, active Indian players cannot participate in foreign leagues to protect the IPL’s exclusivity. Retired players, however, are free to explore opportunities abroad, and Ashwin’s decision to register for ILT20 was part of his shift to global franchise competitions.
Despite going unsold in Dubai, Ashwin remains in high demand elsewhere. He is set to play for Sydney Thunder in the upcoming 2025-26 Big Bash League (BBL), becoming the first Indian cricketer to sign for the Australian club.
Ashwin joins Sydney Thunder in landmark BBL move
Ashwin’s signing with Sydney Thunder was confirmed last month. In the official announcement, the off-spinner outlined his enthusiasm for the role and the clarity offered by the club’s management.
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role,” Ashwin said in Sydney Thunder’s official announcement.
He also expressed admiration for the team’s captain, David Warner. “I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation,” he added.
Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland welcomed the signing, highlighting Ashwin’s influence on and off the field. “I am so proud that Ashwin has chosen Sydney Thunder,” Copeland said.
“From the first time we spoke, Ashwin impressed everyone at the Thunder with his passion, desire to win and understanding of what makes our club special,” Copeland continued.
He emphasized Ashwin’s impact on the team’s young players and fan base. “He will bring an injection of fresh energy and world-class bowling mid-tournament, while his presence as a leader and mentor will be invaluable for our young players.”
“Perhaps most excitingly, Ashwin’s connection with the rapidly growing Indian diaspora in Western Sydney will inspire a new wave of members and fans to join the Thunder Nation. We can’t wait for them to become part of our journey,” he concluded.
What’s next for Ashwin
Even as his ILT20 future remains uncertain following the auction setback, Ashwin’s upcoming BBL season offers a new chapter in his post-IPL career. His Thunder contract allows him to miss the first three weeks of the tournament but participate in the final stages, including the playoffs if the team qualifies.
In addition to his franchise commitments, Ashwin is also scheduled to appear at the Hong Kong Sixes 2025 from November 7–9, marking his first competitive outing since retiring from the IPL.
With a packed schedule and a landmark Australian debut ahead, Ashwin’s global cricket journey continues despite the ILT20 setback.
