Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin faced a massive humiliation before making his entry into the UAE’s most popular T20 franchise league.
The spin bowling all-rounder, who announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year, was keen to explore opportunities in foreign leagues. Shockingly, Ashwin went unsold during the International League T20 (ILT20) auction.
It was even more astonishing to know that none of the franchises were ready to lift their paddle to bid on the veteran cricketer who registered the event at his base price of USD 120,000 (INR 1.06 crore approximately).
Having no other choice, Ashwin was forced to withdraw from the league after going unsold in the beginning round of the auction.
Uncertainty over Ashwin’s Dual Role ILT20
Earlier, Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his plans to perform the dual role of a mentor and player in the ILT20.
Perhaps the franchises were not interested in acquiring the services of a retired international cricketer at a higher base price.
However, Ashwin could have been acquired in the second round, where unsold players will enter the bidding process once again.
As the league is conducting the auction-based system for the first time in its fourth season, the experienced Indian cricketer’s selection could have created a sensation.
Why Ashwin Pulled Out of ILT20 Auction?
Ashwin, who was keen to secure a contract with any ILT20 franchise worth USD 120,000, was unable to find any suitable buyer. The spin-bowling all-rounder revealed the reason for his withdrawal from the auction:
“Yeah! This was the minimum price I preferred. If my value isn’t met, then there is no point in playing cricket happily at this stage. I was well aware that there was a slight chance of my getting picked in the subsequent round. But I decided not to continue and pulled myself out.
Knowing about the Thunder deal (deal with Sydney Thunder in BBL), I was ready to opt out a few days back ahead of the auction. But, due to my commitment to ILT20, I preferred to adhere to my word and enter the event. At the same time, I was keen not to degrade my base price,” Ashwin said.
Alternative Foreign Leagues for Ashwin After Pulling Out of ILT20
Ahead of the ILT20 auction, Ravichandran Ashwin showed his interest in different franchise leagues across the globe.
In the previous month, he signed a contract with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming 15th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), starting on December 14, 2025 (Sunday).
Earlier, several reports claimed that Ashwin’s maiden BBL stint with the team would start in January 2026. But, after going unsold in the ILT20 2025, Ashwin is ready to represent Thunder right from their opening game of the season.
Ashwin’s Base Price in ILT20 Auction: Higher or Lower?
Having played 333 matches in the T20 cricket, Ashwin claimed 317 wickets at an average of 26.94 and a strike rate of 22.70. So, his base price of USD 120,000 (INR 1.06 crore) was too modest.
If any franchise showed their interest in Round 2, his several years of experience as a spin bowler and ability to contribute with the bat at the lower order could have proved valuable in the ILT20 2025-26.
Ashwin, who played his last IPL season representing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2025, was acquired for a lucrative price of INR 9.75 crore.
He could have played yet another IPL season either with CSK or a different franchise worth more than his ILT20 base price. But the 38-year-old ensured to avoid the regretful feeling of not having played any of the foreign leagues once he hangs up his boots.
‘Thunders Knew How to Use Me’: Ashwin’s Straightforward Answer
Ashwin was confident that the Sydney Thunder were well aware of his abilities and knew how to extract the best potential of him in BBL 2025-26:
“Certainly! The Thunder franchise has a crystal understanding of how to make the best use of me, and they are bold enough to stick with their decisions.
Also, my conversations with the team leaders were food, and they were ready to accept my role.
I love watching David Warner to see how he plays the game. When your captain shares your mindset, what could be better than that? I can’t wait to play for the Thunders and feel excited to play my first BBL season,” Ashwin added.
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Final Thoughts
Had Ravichandran Ashwin played his first-ever ILT20, there could have been a huge surge in the viewership rate, particularly from India. Nevertheless, Ashwin had executed alternative plans and is all set to play the BBL 15. Despite going unsold in the ILT20 auction, the legendary spinner continues to grab the headlines as he becomes the first high-profile Indian cricketer and the second Indian after Unmukt Chand to feature in Australia’s most famous T20 franchise league.
