Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin is set to be provided with private security as he heads to Australia for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season. The Sydney Thunder have expressed concerns about the possibility of Ashwin being mobbed by enthusiastic Indian fans while in the city. To ensure his safety, the franchise is taking extra precautions ahead of his arrival.

Reports indicate that Ashwin will bring his personal crew to document his BBL journey with the Sydney Thunder for his YouTube channel. With a tremendous fan base that includes 5.3 million Instagram followers and 1.75 million YouTube subscribers, Ashwin is likely to attract considerable interest on and off the field. Security requirements have increased due to last year’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where about 5,000 Indian supporters gathered to watch India’s pink-ball practice session at Adelaide Oval, raising considerable safety concerns.

The Sydney Thunder aim to prevent a repeat of such situations during the BBL season. “The prospect of the veteran spinner training and playing in western Sydney has been flagged as a potential safety risk. The open nature of Cricket NSW’s facilities at Sydney Olympic Park means Indian fans could mob Ashwin at training,” the Sydney Morning Herald reported. In response, the Thunder have coordinated with Cricket Australia to ensure proper security measures are in place for an athlete of Ashwin’s popularity. “Ashwin may be given personal security during his time in Australia,” the report added.

Ashwin’s impact on BBL and fan engagement

Ashwin, 39, is expected to participate in three to five matches in January and will also feature in the finals if the Sydney Thunder qualify. His arrival is being hailed as the biggest signing in BBL history, sending a strong signal to fans, members, and sponsors. “It is the biggest signing in the history of the BBL. It is a really clear message to our fans and members and sponsors … that we are winning these moments. All eight clubs wanted this guy,” said Sydney Thunder general manager Copeland on Friday.

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He added, “Ashwin has chosen us, which is a really cool story. Ashwin will be a great advocate for how great our tournament is and the Thunder environment.” With Ashwin’s dual role as a player and content creator, the Thunder hope to leverage his immense popularity to enhance the tournament’s visibility while ensuring a safe and secure experience for the cricketing star in Australia.