Ashwin Signs With San Francisco Unicorns, First Capped Indian In MLC
India-West News Desk
SAN FRANCISCO, CA –The San Francisco Unicorns have signed veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) season, marking the first time a capped Indian international has joined the American professional league.
Ashwin, a 2011 World Cup winner and one of the top five wicket-takers in Indian Premier League history, is expected to provide both world-class bowling and tactical leadership for the Bay Area franchise.
“The arrival of Ravichandran Ashwin is a seismic moment, not just for the Unicorns, but for the entire trajectory of American cricket,” David White, CEO of the San Francisco Unicorns, said in a press release, noting that the move is expected to elevate the franchise’s international footprint and the MLC brand.
Co-owner Anand Rajaraman said Ashwin’s “unique wealth of T20 experience” aligns with the franchise’s ambitions for sustained success.
Ashwin’s move marks a rare instance of a high-profile Indian player participating in an international T20 league outside the IPL. With over 100 caps in both Test and ODI formats, along with 65 T20 internationals, he brings a resume that includes a Champions Trophy title and stints with major IPL teams including Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals.
Head coach Cameron White emphasized that the signing is driven by performance. “First and foremost, he’s joining to help us win games,” White said. “His experience in high-pressure situations and his skill variations will be invaluable on the pitch.”
Ashwin expressed a sense of responsibility in taking on the role. “The opportunity to be a part of it with the San Francisco Unicorns was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” he said in an official statement. “My absolute focus is to help this franchise win games and push for its first Championship.”
The Unicorns are scheduled to open their season on June 19, 2026, against the LA Knight Riders at Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Texas. The tournament will conclude on July 18, 2026, at the Oakland Coliseum.
