The Sydney Thunder are set to sign Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for a portion of this summer’s Big Bash tournament, in a deal that may ultimately be worth around $1 million over two years as Cricket Australia explores private investment in the league.

Three sources speaking on the condition of anonymity, due to the sensitive nature of discussions, say a deal is close to being finalised with Ashwin for the upcoming season.

Ravichandran Ashwin. Credit: AP

Ashwin, who took 537 wickets at an average of just under 24 in 106 Tests, has told the Thunder he is keen to play for them after talks that have been progressing for a little less than a month.

No deal has been signed as yet, but there have been discussions of a two-year agreement. Ashwin’s salary package is expected to be a

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