In a surprising turn of events at the ILT20 2025 auction held on Wednesday, veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin remained unsold. The 39-year-old, who was listed in the highest base price bracket of USD 120,000, failed to attract any bids from the franchises. Meanwhile, other former Indian cricketers like Dinesh Karthik and Piyush Chawla successfully secured contracts with Sharjah Warriorz and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, respectively.
Ashwin’s unexpected absence from the bidding war is being attributed to his substantial base price and potential scheduling clashes with Australia’s Big Bash League, for which he has already committed. There are also strong suggestions that Ashwin might have personally withdrawn his availability just before the auction commenced.
Commenting on this development, former New Zealand fast bowler and cricket commentator Simon Doull expressed his astonishment. “We’re hearing that he may have pulled out of the auction, which is a massive surprise. I mean, you’ve got to read the room,” Doull remarked during the commentary. “You’ve got to understand what’s going on out there and all that money left, when there are 3-4 teams with over $400,000 left in their pot. I don’t think they came here not wanting to spend money — it’s there to be spent. If he pulled himself out, then he just hasn’t read the room. I think sides would have gone in for him.”
Earlier in August, Ashwin announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League, a move that opened the door for him to participate in various global T20 leagues. Interestingly, three of the ILT20 teams are owned by franchises from the IPL.
Multiple reports further suggest Ashwin’s keen interest in participating in the next season of The Hundred tournament. He is also set to make history as the first prominent Indian male cricketer to feature in the Big Bash League later this year.
In a previous statement, Ashwin shared his enthusiasm for his new venture. “Thunder were crystal clear about how they’d use me and brave enough to back it,” he stated. “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.”
Ashwin’s packed schedule includes representing Team India in the Hong Kong Sixes tournament in November, followed by his stint with Sydney Thunder in the upcoming Big Bash League season.