R Ashwin had signed up for the entire BBL season to play for the Sydney Thunder.

Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) due to knee surgery, Sydney Thunder announced on Tuesday. The franchise is working with Ashwin to revise his schedule of activities during the season based on his recovery progress, while maintaining hope that he can still be involved with the team in some capacity later in the tournament.Sydney Thunder’s General Manager Trent Copeland expressed the club’s disappointment regarding Ashwin’s injury while emphasising their continued focus on fielding a competitive squad.

“Everyone at Sydney Thunder was devastated to learn of Ash’s knee injury that has ruled him out of BBL 15, and we wish him well in his recovery,” said Trent Copeland.Copeland further elaborated on the team’s relationship with Ashwin: “From the moment we first spoke with Ash, his commitment to Thunder was clear. We are hopeful of welcoming him into our dugout for part of BBL, introducing him to our fans at events and building a long-term relationship.”Ashwin responded to the situation with his own statement expressing his disappointment and future intentions: “I’m gutted to miss BBL. My focus now is recovery and coming back stronger. I’m grateful to the Thunder family and the fans for the warmth they’ve already shown me. Trent and the entire management made me feel part of the club from our very first conversation.”The Indian spinner added: “If rehab and travel plans allow, I’d love to be around the group later in the season and meet the fans. Wishing both Thunder teams a big year.”Despite this setback, Sydney Thunder remains optimistic about their upcoming season. Copeland stated: “While disappointing for the club, we have built two championship-contending squads and expect to continue the progress of recent seasons in WBBL and BBL. We can’t wait to get back in front of our fans in Western Sydney for two massive campaigns.”The Thunder’s BBL campaign is scheduled to begin with a grand final re-match against the Hurricanes in Hobart on December 16, followed by the Sydney Smash on December 20.