Ravichandran Ashwin in talks over with Cricket Australia, might characteristic in BBL 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin could become the first Indian player to feature in the Big Bash League as per reports. Ashwin recently announced his retirement from the IPL, allowing him to feature in overseas T20 leagues across the globe. The 38-year-old is actively in talks with Cricket Australia, and could feature in BBL 2026.

Ashwin set for BBL stint?

As per Cricbuzz, Ravichandran Ashwin could become the first high-profile cricketer to in the Big Bash League in Australia. Ashwin, 38, announced his retirement from IPL in August with a view on targetting player-cum-coaching roles in overseas leagues. The Indian red-ball legend has been in talks with multiple stakeholders across the globe, with Cricket Australia being the latest.

As per the report, Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg is currently in discussions with Ashwin about the possibility of the star Indian spinner showing off his wares in the BBL. Ashwin later confirmed the same to Cricbuzz.

“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.

Ashwin was not in contention to feature in the SA20, having not been eligible in time to register for the auction. He could still feature in the IlT20, despite most marquee signings being already sealed. The Big Bash thus gives him the earlier opportunity, and the 38-year-old could feature in the 2026 edition starting in December.

Ashwin’s addition to BBL 2026 would be a massive boost to the T20 League’s profile. Cricket Australia have often been criticized for their lack of star power in the competition. Several Australian superstars have missed most of the games during the tournament, with the BBL clashing with the Australian Test summer.

How much could Ashwin earn at BBL?

Signing Ashwin would be the latest attempt in increasing the tournament’s profile that has seen a rise in competition across the globe. The 38-year-old has insisted on coaching opportunities along with player duties, with Greenberg set to now negotiate with franchises in a bid to generate interest in his services.

Pakistan’s Babar Azam reportedly signed a deal with Sydney Sixers, earning him approximately Rs 2.4 crore. Ashwin would certainly demand a salary in that ball park, having earned close to Rs 10 crore with CSK in IPL 2025. Sydney Thunder paid David Warner roughly 80,000 AUD for each BBL contest in 2024. For Ashwin, that figure would come around INR 45L. Should the Indian all-rounder feature in even half the season, he could bag a paycheck in excess of 3 crore. Furthermore, brand endorsements and other deals could also come into the picture.