ILT20 2025 Auction: In a surprising turn of events, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin went unsold at the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 auction held in Dubai. Entering the bidding with a base price of USD 120,000, the 38-year-old veteran failed to attract any franchise interest, leaving fans and experts stunned.
Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement from both international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL), had made himself available for the UAE-based league, sparking speculation about his potential impact. Despite his unmatched experience, no franchise chose to invest in him this season.
The veteran off-spinner boasts an illustrious IPL career, having played 221 matches across five franchises, making him the seventh-most capped player in the league’s history. He finished with 187 IPL wickets, the fifth-highest tally in the tournament, and won two titles with Chennai Super Kings in 2010 and 2011. Overall, he has taken 317 wickets in 333 T20 matches, proving his effectiveness in the shortest format.
His last IPL auction appearance saw him command a price of ₹9.75 crore with CSK, highlighting his stature. However, the ILT20 outcome marked a stark contrast.
Despite the setback, Ashwin’s career in franchise cricket continues as he has signed for the Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15, where he will represent Sydney Thunder. This historic signing makes him the first male cricketer from India to officially join a BBL franchise.
In a statement, Sydney Thunder said:
“Indian legend Ravichandran Ashwin has created history, joining Sydney Thunder for BBL|15. The Thunder Nation will welcome the biggest overseas signing since the League’s inception, with Ashwin set to become the first male player to have represented India to join a BBL club.”
While the ILT20 snub raises questions about franchise strategies, Ashwin’s upcoming BBL stint ensures his global cricketing journey is far from over.
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