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The 38-year-old sustained the injury while training in Chennai and subsequently underwent a medical procedure that has made him unavailable for the tournament, which runs from December 14 to January 25. Ashwin shared the news directly with Thunder supporters through a letter posted on Instagram, explaining that the surgery would prevent him from taking the field this season.
Sydney Thunder said they would remain in close contact with Ashwin during his rehabilitation and were working with him on a revised schedule that could include attending matches in a non-playing capacity. While his on-field contribution has been postponed, the franchise indicated it remains keen to keep him involved around the squad as he focuses on recovery.
Ashwin admitted his disappointment at missing the opportunity, describing himself as “gutted” in a statement released by the club. He said his immediate priority was rehabilitation and returning stronger, while also expressing gratitude to the Thunder management and fans for their support. Ashwin noted that general manager Trent Copeland and the wider leadership group made him feel part of the club from their very first discussions.
The BBL deal had followed Ashwin’s retirement from the Indian Premier League earlier this year, a decision that opened the door for him to participate in overseas T20 competitions. After going unsold in the ILT20 auction, his full-season commitment to Sydney Thunder remained the only confirmed overseas league contract of his post-IPL career.
Ashwin’s absence represents a significant blow for both the Thunder and the BBL, which had hoped to showcase one of modern cricket’s most accomplished spin bowlers. While his debut will have to wait, the focus now shifts to his recovery and the possibility of a future return, with his potential involvement still carrying major significance for the league’s global appeal.
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