Ravichandran Ashwin went unsold at the ILT20 2025 auction, leaving fans and cricket experts stunned. The Indian spin maestro, aged 39, was listed in the top base price category of USD 120,000 but failed to attract any bids on Wednesday.
While former India stars like Dinesh Karthik and Piyush Chawla secured contracts with Sharjah Warriorz and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, respectively, Ashwin’s absence from the sold pool raised eyebrows. Reports indicate that his high base price, coupled with potential clashes with the Big Bash League in Australia, may have influenced team decisions.
Expert Reaction and Auction Insights
Former New Zealand pacer and commentator Simon Doull expressed surprise over Ashwin’s unsold status:
“We’re hearing he may have pulled out of the auction, which is a massive surprise. With multiple teams having over $400,000 left to spend, sides would have certainly gone in for him if he was available. If he withdrew, he hasn’t read the room,” Doull said.
Also Read: ILT20 Season 4 Auction: Andre Fletcher bags $260,000 as UAE pacers create history
Ashwin’s Future Plans
Ashwin had announced his IPL retirement in August 2025, making him eligible for global T20 leagues, including the ILT20, where three franchises are owned by IPL teams. However, the veteran spinner has expressed interest in playing in the next season of The Hundred and is set to become the first prominent Indian male cricketer in the Big Bash League later this year.
Speaking about his Sydney Thunder stint, Ashwin said:
“Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it. My conversations with the leadership were excellent, and we’re fully aligned on my role. I love how Dave Warner plays the game, and it’s always better when your leader shares your mindset. I can’t wait to perform for the Thunder Nation.”
In addition to franchise cricket, Ashwin is scheduled to represent Team India at the Hong Kong Sixes tournament in November and will join Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League season.
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