Sydney, Nov 4 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has been sidelined from participating in the 2025 edition of the Big Bash League due to a knee injury incurred while training in Chennai, as confirmed by his BBL team Sydney Thunder on Tuesday.

At 39 years old, Ashwin was signed for a full season, marking him as the first Indian male cricketer to participate in this Australian tournament. However, his knee injury has put his participation on hold, with the franchise stating they will keep a close watch on his recovery to determine if he can join later in the competition.

"The impact of Ashwin’s historic signing will resonate throughout Thunder Nation, and the club is collaborating with him on an adjusted activity schedule during BBL|15, contingent on his recovery progress," the franchise noted in an official statement.

Ashwin expressed, "While training in Chennai for the upcoming season, I injured my knee. I underwent a procedure, and the results indicate I will miss BBL 15. It’s tough to admit. I was truly looking forward to being part of this team and performing in front of you all.

"For now, it's about rehabilitation, recovery, and working hard to return stronger. From my first conversation with the club, I’ve felt nothing but warmth from Trent, the coaching staff, the players, and many of you who have already reached out. Thank you for making me feel at home before a ball was bowled.

"I will be watching every game and cheering for both our women's and men's teams. If my rehab and travel align, and the doctors approve, I would love to be around later this season to greet everyone in person. No promises, but that is my intent."

Ashwin had announced his retirement from the IPL in August and had agreed to play at least three matches later in the BBL season for Thunder. This was based on his commitment to participate in the ILT20, where he had set a maximum base price of USD 120,000.

However, Ashwin went unsold in the ILT20 auction, with none of the six franchises showing interest. Consequently, he became the first capped Indian player to secure a BBL contract.

Sydney Thunder's campaign for this BBL season will kick off in Hobart against the Hurricanes on December 16, followed by a much-anticipated Sydney Smash at ENGIE Stadium on December 20.

Updated roster for Sydney Thunder: Wes Agar, Tom Andrews, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (ENG), Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Shadab Khan (PAK), Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Adian O'Connor, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, David Warner