Ravichandran Ashwin Joins Major League Cricket, Becomes First Indian International in U.S. T20 League

New Delhi 29 March 2026 Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to create history by becoming the first Indian international cricketer to participate in the U.S.-based Major League Cricket (MLC). The 39-year-old has been signed by San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season, marking a significant milestone in the global expansion of cricket. Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in 2024, enjoyed a remarkable career representing India in 287 matches across formats and claiming 765 wickets. He remains India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket after Anil Kumble. Following his retirement from the Indian Premier League last year, this move signals a new chapter in his professional journey. Earlier, Ashwin was expected to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League with Sydney Thunder but had to withdraw due to a knee injury. Now fully fit, he expressed enthusiasm about joining MLC, calling it a “major responsibility” to represent Indian cricket in the league and contribute to his team’s success. The fourth season of Major League Cricket is scheduled to begin on June 18, and Ashwin’s participation is expected to draw significant attention from fans worldwide. His presence is likely to boost the league’s profile while strengthening its connection with Indian cricket audiences. Ravichandran Ashwin Joins Major League Cricket, Becomes First Indian International in U.S. T20 League Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to create history by becoming the first Indian international cricketer to participate in the U.S.-based Major League Cricket (MLC). The 39-year-old has been signed by San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season, marking a significant milestone in the global expansion of cricket. Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in 2024, enjoyed a remarkable career representing India in 287 matches across formats and claiming 765 wickets. He remains India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket after Anil Kumble. Following his retirement from the Indian Premier League last year, this move signals a new chapter in his professional journey. Earlier, Ashwin was expected to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League with Sydney Thunder but had to withdraw due to a knee injury. Now fully fit, he expressed enthusiasm about joining MLC, calling it a “major responsibility” to represent Indian cricket in the league and contribute to his team’s success. The fourth season of Major League Cricket is scheduled to begin on June 18, and Ashwin’s participation is expected to draw significant attention from fans worldwide. His presence is likely to boost the league’s profile while strengthening its connection with Indian cricket audiences.