The San Francisco Unicorns have signed veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2026 season of Major League Cricket (MLC). The signing is historic, as Ashwin is set to become the first Indian-capped international cricketer to feature in the league. Ashwin’s inclusion will surely give unicorns an edge. He is vastly experienced, having represented India in 106 Tests and 116 ODIs. He has made 65 appearances in T20Is. Ashwin was highly impactful in the Indian Premier League, where he has represented Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals.

“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," Ravichandran Ashwin said in a statement.

“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," he said. 

San Francisco Unicorns' head coach Cameron White was thrilled to welcome Ashwin.

“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.”

San Francisco Unicorns' co-owner Anand Rajaraman called the signing a landmark moment.

"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."