New Delhi, Nov. 4 -- Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin will miss his Big Bash League debut for the Sydney Thunder owing to knee surgery. The off-spinner had announced his retirement from the IPL earlier in the year, which made him available to participate in overseas franchise leagues.

​Ashwin says he hurt his knee while preparing for the upcoming season of the Big Bash League. The 39-year-old also added that he would love to play later in the season if the rehab and travel plans allow him to.

​"I'm gutted to miss BBL|15. My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I'm grateful to the Thunder family and the fans for the warmth they've already shown me. Trent [Copeland, Thunder general manager] and the entire ma...