Ravichandran Ashwin signs with San Francisco Unicorns for MLC 2026

The San Francisco Unicorns have signed Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2026 season of Major League Cricket. Ashwin is set to become the first Indian-capped player to feature in the league.

The offspinner brings a wealth of international and league experience. He was part of India's triumphs in the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, and has played over 100 matches in both Tests and ODIs, along with 65 T20I appearances. In the IPL, he remains among the leading wicket-takers, having represented Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals.

Ashwin said: "The MLC has proven over recent seasons that it can put on a show, bringing in world-class players and offering significant exposure to US domestic cricket talent, and the opportunity to be a part of it with the San Francisco Unicorns was an opportunity I couldn't pass up."

"Taking on the mantle as the first Indian-capped player to compete in Major League Cricket is a major responsibility that I fully embrace. My absolute focus is to help this franchise win games and push for its first Championship, while also putting on a spectacular brand of cricket for the Bay Area fans."

Unicorns head coach Cameron White said: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome a player of Ashwin's stature to the Unicorns. When you talk about match-winners and cricketing intelligence, his name is at the top of the list around the world."

"Bringing in the first Indian-capped player is a massive moment for our franchise and MLC as a whole, but first and foremost, he's joining to help us win games. His experience in high-pressure situations and his skill variations will be invaluable on the pitch and in the nets, and I can't wait to get into camp and start working with him."

Co-owner Anand Rajaraman termed it a landmark addition: "The signing of a true global cricketing icon in Ravi Ashwin is a landmark moment for the Unicorns and the league as a whole. While he'll obviously bring the spotlight on the team, Ashwin will also bring a unique wealth of T20 experience and cricketing talent that will be of huge benefit to us on the pitch."

The Unicorns begin their campaign on June 19 against LA Knight Riders at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium, with the final scheduled for July 18 at the Oakland Coliseum.