Ravichandran Ashwin could become the first Indian star to play in Australia’s Big Bash League, with Cricket Australia confirming talks with the veteran spinner.

CA chief executive Todd Greenberg said he personally reached out to Ashwin after the 38-year-old retired from the IPL last week. Ashwin had hinted he wanted to “explore” franchise cricket beyond India, and the BBL may be his first stop.

“To get someone with Ashwin’s credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels,” as Greenberg was quoted by Indian cricket news website Cricbuzz. “He’s a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our summer.”

The discussions are still at an early stage. CA must work out how many matches he could play, which club would sign him, and how to fit him into squads that have already spent their overseas budgets. There is speculation he could land in Melbourne if a deal is struck.

For the BBL, Ashwin’s arrival would be a coup. The league has often been accused of lacking global star power. Bringing in one of India’s most decorated cricketers — a World Cup winner with more than 700 international wickets — would not only lift the competition’s profile but also attract new audiences across South Asia.

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It could also open a door for other Indian players once their IPL careers wind down. If Ashwin takes the plunge, names like Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma may one day follow.

For Ashwin, the BBL might be the first step in his new chapter as a freelance player, coach-in-waiting, and broadcaster. For the Big Bash, it could be the jolt of relevance it has been seeking.