The Sydney Thunder are set to sign Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for a portion of this summer’s Big Bash tournament.

Sources speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of discussions say a deal is close to being finalised with Ashwin for the upcoming season.

Ashwin, who took 537 wickets at an average of 24 in 106 Tests, has told the Thunder he is keen to play for them.

The BCCI does not allow Indian players to feature in the Big Bash – or other T20 leagues around the world – but Ashwin has retired from the Indian Premier League, which paves the way for an historic signing.

Cricket Australia boss Todd Greenberg has been in talks with Ashin about the prospect of playing in Australia.

More to come

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