Veteran Spinner Targets Franchise Cricket Milestone

Former India international Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked global cricket interest by registering for the International League T20 (ILT20) draft at a maximum base price of $120,000. The 39-year-old off-spinner, who retired from IPL cricket in August 2025, could become the first high-profile Indian player to compete in multiple overseas T20 leagues during a single season.

Key Developments:

• Enters ILT20 draft (Dec 2-Jan 4) as marquee player
• In advanced talks with Big Bash League teams for January 2026 stint
• Potentially available for BBL playoffs (Jan 15-25)
• Could partner England stars like Sam Curran in UAE tournament

Strategic Career Move

The Tamil Nadu-born cricketer's decision tests the BCCI's controversial policy restricting active Indian players from foreign leagues. Having completely retired from domestic cricket, Ashwin becomes eligible for:

1. Full ILT20 season participation
2. Late-season Big Bash appearances
3. Potential back-to-back franchise commitments

Market Impact

Cricket analysts suggest Ashwin's move could:

• Attract 18%+ Indian viewership to ILT20
• Create bidding war among UAE franchises
• Pressure BCCI to review overseas league policies
• Set precedent for retiring Indian stars

Tournament Overlap

Global Interest Peaks

England's record wicket-taker James Anderson has also entered the ILT20 draft, seeking franchise opportunities after international retirement. The October 1 auction promises intense competition for:

• Premium spin options
• Veteran leadership qualities
• Marketing appeal in Asian markets

Cricket Australia officials remain tight-lipped about Ashwin's Big Bash negotiations, but multiple franchises have confirmed interest in securing the 487-wicket Test legend for their playoff pushes.