Veteran India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season after sustaining a knee injury during training in Chennai, the cricketer announced today.
The 39-year-old, who was set to become the first Indian player to feature in the BBL, confirmed that he had undergone a medical procedure and will now focus on rehabilitation and recovery.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in December last year and from the IPL in August, was signed by Sydney Thunder for what would have been his debut appearance in Australia’s premier T20 league, beginning December 14.
In a heartfelt message to fans, Ashwin expressed disappointment over missing the tournament but thanked the Thunder management and supporters for their warmth. “I was genuinely excited to be a part of this group. For now, it is rehab and recovery to come back stronger,” he wrote on social media.
He added that he hopes to join the Thunder camp later in the season, subject to medical clearance.
