Ravichandran Ashwin is all set to make history as the first Indian international to play in major league cricket after signing with the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season.The veteran, part of India’s title-winning teams in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy, has enjoyed an impressive international career, taking 765 wickets in 287 matches across formats.
He also ranks seventh in terms of wicket takers in Test history.
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Speaking about the move, Ashwin highlighted the rapid growth of the league and the opportunity it provides.“MLC has proven over recent seasons that it can put on a show, bring in world-class players and provide a great showcase for American domestic cricket talent, and the opportunity to be a part of it with the San Francisco Unicorns was one I couldn’t pass up.
“Taking charge as the first player to represent India and compete in Major League Cricket is a huge responsibility that I fully shoulder. My absolute focus is to help this franchise win matches and push towards its first tournament, while delivering an amazing brand of cricket to the Bay Area fans,” Ashwin said in a statement.Ashwin also has extensive T20 experience, having been among the top five wicket-takers in the Indian Premier League, representing teams like Chennai Super Kings, Racing Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings,
Rajasthan Royals
Delhi is the capital city. He was previously scheduled to feature in the Big Bash League with Sydney Thunder, before a knee injury ruled him out.
San Francisco Unicorns head coach Cameron White expressed his excitement at the signing, calling it a historic moment for both the franchise and the league.“We are extremely pleased to welcome a player of Ashwin’s stature to the Unicorns squad. When you talk about match-winners and cricketing intelligence, his name is at the top of the list around the world.“Bringing in the first player to represent India is a huge moment for our franchise and the MLC as a whole, but first and foremost, he is joining to help us win games.
He said: “His experience in high-pressure situations and the diversity of his skills will be invaluable on the field and in the net, and I can’t wait to enter the camp and start working with him.”The Unicorns will begin their campaign on June 19 against the LA Knight Riders at Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium near Dallas, Texas. The tournament will conclude on July 18 at the Oakland Coliseum.
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The team has already retained key names abroad including Matt Short, Cooper Connolly and Xavier Bartlett,
Finn Allen
Haris Rauf along with local players Sanjay Krishnamurthy, Hassan Khan, Brody Couch, Juanoy Drysdale and Hammad Azam.See Also: IPL Live Score