In a historic moment for global cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin signed with san francisco unicorn For the 2026 season Major League Cricket (MLC). The move not only strengthens the Unicorns’ squad but also marks a historic milestone, as Ashwin becomes the first Indian cricketer to feature in an American franchise-based T20 competition.
Ravichandran Ashwin: A career defined by excellence and experience
Ashwin arrives in the United States with a decorated cricket resume that spans more than a decade at the highest level. A key member of India’s victorious squads in 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and this 2013 ICC Champions TrophyThe off-spinner has been one of the most influential bowlers of his generation.
During his international career, Ashwin represented India in 287 matches across all formats, and took an impressive 765 wickets. He appeared in 65 T20 Internationals as well as over 100 Test and One Day Internationals. In red-ball cricket, he is India’s second-highest wicket-taker after the great Anil Kumble.
Ashwin also enjoyed a great stint Indian Premier Leagueplaying for franchises like Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan RoyalsAnd Delhi CapitalsConsistently ranking among the top wicket-takers of the tournament.
Fresh chapter after international retirement
The 39-year-old spinner retired from international cricket in 2024 and ended his IPL journey last year, signaling the end of a brilliant chapter in Indian cricket. Although he was prepared to appear in Australia big bash league with sydney thunderA knee injury forced him to withdraw from that stint.
Now fully fit, Ashwin’s move to MLC represents both a new opportunity and a significant boost for the development of cricket in the United States. It is expected that his presence will attract global attention and inspire young players in the emerging cricket market.
Also read: Yograj Singh criticizes Ravichandran Ashwin over comments on Arjun Tendulkar ahead of IPL 2026
Unicorns build a strong core for 2026
The San Francisco Unicorns have already assembled a balanced and competitive squad ahead of the new season. Major foreign players like Matt Short, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Finn AllenAnd Haris Rauf ensuring continuity and depth.
On the domestic front, the team will rely on talents like Sanjay Krishnamurthy, Hassan Khan, Brody Couch, Juanoy DrysdaleAnd Hammad Azam. With the inclusion of Ashwin, the Unicorns have not only got a world-class spinner but also a strategic thinker who is known for his tactical brilliance.
The Unicorns will launch their MLC 2026 campaign on June 19 LA Knight Riders At the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium. The tournament will conclude with the finals on July 18 at the prestigious Oakland Coliseum.
Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin predicts CSK’s top batsman in IPL 2026
