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In a landmark moment for global cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin has signed with the San Francisco Unicorns for the 2026 season of Major League Cricket (MLC). The move not only strengthens the Unicorns’ squad but also marks a historic milestone, as Ashwin becomes the first Indian-capped cricketer to participate in the American franchise-based T20 competition.
Ravichandran Ashwin: A career defined by excellence and experience
Ashwin arrives in the United States with a decorated cricketing résumé that spans more than a decade at the highest level. A key member of India’s victorious squads in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, the off-spinner has been one of the most influential bowlers of his generation.
Over the course of his international career, Ashwin represented India in 287 matches across formats, claiming an impressive 765 wickets. He featured in over 100 Tests and One Day Internationals each, along with 65 T20 Internationals. In red-ball cricket, he stands as India’s second-highest wicket-taker, only behind the legendary Anil Kumble.
Ashwin also enjoyed a prolific stint in the Indian Premier League, playing for franchises such as Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiant, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals, consistently ranking among the tournament’s top wicket-takers.
Fresh chapter after international retirement
The 39-year-old spinner retired from international cricket in 2024 and concluded his IPL journey last year, signaling the end of an illustrious chapter in Indian cricket. Although he was set to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League with Sydney Thunder, a knee injury forced him to withdraw from that stint.
Now fully fit, Ashwin’s move to MLC represents both a fresh opportunity and a significant boost for cricket’s growth in the United States. His presence is expected to attract global attention and inspire younger players in an emerging cricketing market.
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Unicorns build a strong core for 2026
The San Francisco Unicorns have already assembled a balanced and competitive squad ahead of the new season. Key overseas players such as Matt Short, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Finn Allen, and Haris Rauf have been retained, ensuring continuity and depth.
On the domestic front, the team will rely on talents like Sanjay Krishnamurthi, Hassan Khan, Brody Couch, Juanoy Drysdale, and Hammad Azam. With Ashwin’s addition, the Unicorns gain not just a world-class spinner but also a strategic thinker known for his tactical brilliance.
The Unicorns will kick off their MLC 2026 campaign on June 19 against the LA Knight Riders at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium. The tournament will culminate with the final on July 18 at the iconic Oakland Coliseum.
Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin predicts CSK’s top batter in IPL 2026
