Ravichandran Ashwin Joins San Francisco Unicorns for Major League Cricket Debut in USA

Ravichandran Ashwin signs with San Francisco Unicorns, becoming the first former India international to feature in Major League Cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin is set to feature in Major League Cricket after signing with the San Francisco Unicorns for the upcoming season. This marks a historic milestone as Ashwin becomes the first former Indian international cricketer to participate in the league, which was established in 2023.

The development is significant for the growth of cricket in the United States, especially with the sport set to return at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after a 128-year gap. Ashwin, now 39, recently featured in an exhibition match in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which further reinforced his belief in the potential of cricket in the region.

Reflecting on his experience, Ashwin said, “Just looking at the reception that the Asian diaspora was able to bring for that game just showed me what the potential of American cricket could very well be. It’s very exciting.”

Decorated Career Meets Global Franchise Cricket

Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers, Ashwin brings immense pedigree to the league. The veteran off-spinner ranks among the top wicket-takers in Test history and played a key role in India’s triumph at the 2011 Cricket World Cup.

Despite his global stature, this will be his first appearance in a major franchise tournament outside India, having previously missed out on a stint in the Big Bash League due to injury.

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MLC CEO Johnny Grave highlighted the importance of Ashwin’s signing, stating, “This will be the first time he’s played in a major global franchise competition outside of India, And for us to be the first league to attract a player of this caliber is a testament to how the league’s developed over the last three years since it was launched back in 2023.”

Growing Influence and Future Vision in USA

Ashwin’s decision to join the league also stems from the rising interest in cricket across the United States. Players like Monank Patel and Harmeet Singh have already contributed to the league’s growth, while international stars such as Faf du Plessis, Kieron Pollard, and Trent Boult have featured in previous editions.

Ashwin also pointed to the increasing participation in his cricket academy, both physically and online, as a sign of the sport’s expanding footprint in the country.

Explaining his motivation, he said, “The fact that there is so much interest from the kids and from a lot of people who have come and settled in America and showing so much interest towards the game, I just wanted to come and experience what it is going to look like when we turn up for the MLC.”