San Francisco Unicorns Secure Peter Siddle as Replacement for Injured Ravichandran Ashwin in MLC 2026

With the 2026 Major League Cricket (MLC) season now in its pivotal mid‑stage, the San Francisco Unicorns — currently topping the table — have suffered a major setback as veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a right‑knee injury. Although he appeared in only a single match this season, his experience is a significant loss given the intensifying playoff race. The franchise has quickly secured an experienced Australian pacer to serve as his replacement for the remainder of the competition.

Ravichandran Ashwin ruled out of the remainder of MLC 2026

Ashwin’s much‑anticipated debut season in Major League Cricket concluded abruptly after the San Francisco Unicorns announced that the former India international had been ruled out with a right‑knee injury. At 39, he had made history earlier this year by joining the Unicorns, becoming one of the most prominent Indian players to represent an overseas franchise after retiring from domestic cricket. His signing was hailed as a watershed moment for the league, underscoring its ambition to attract some of cricket’s most celebrated talent.

The brief appearance came in a single match against the Texas Super Kings, where Ashwin bowled two overs, conceding 24 runs without taking a wicket. In a statement, the Unicorns expressed disappointment among supporters while noting hope that the veteran spinner might return to the franchise in the future.

The franchise extended best wishes to Ashwin for a swift recovery and thanked him for his contribution during his short stint. Reflecting on the setback, Ashwin said he was disappointed that his campaign ended early but accepted that stepping away was the appropriate decision given his injury. He also thanked teammates, coaches, officials and fans for making his time with the Unicorns a memorable experience, and added that he would continue to support the team as they chase the MLC title.

The setback follows another knee injury that previously forced Ashwin to withdraw from the Big Bash League, though it is unclear whether the current issue is related to that earlier problem.

Replacement announced for Ashwin

To fill the void left by Ashwin, the San Francisco Unicorns have signed veteran Australian fast bowler Peter Siddle for the remainder of MLC 2026.

The tournament organisers have officially approved Siddle as Ashwin’s replacement, allowing the experienced seamer to join the squad immediately. Siddle brings years of international and franchise cricket experience, giving the Unicorns another seasoned campaigner as they prepare for the decisive stages of the tournament. Despite Ashwin’s absence, the Unicorns remain in a strong position, currently topping the six‑team standings with five wins from eight matches and well placed to secure a playoff berth.

With Siddle now part of the lineup, the franchise hopes his experience and knack with the new ball will bolster their bowling attack as they aim to maintain momentum and push for their maiden Major League Cricket title.

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