Bengaluru, Sept. 25 -- Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has officially signed with the Sydney Thunder to play in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL), marking a historic first for a major Indian cricketer in the tournament.

Ashwin, who recently retired from the IPL and international cricket, had earlier registered for the International T20 League (ILT20) in Dubai and attracted attention from four franchise teams, before finalizing terms with Sydney Thunder.

The decision was influenced by the team management's clarity on Ashwin's role and the opportunity to play under former Australian batsman David Warner's leadership. "Sydney Thunder clearly communicated how they plan to use me and showed faith in my abilities. I am excited to con...