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Former England captain and star all-rounder Ben Stokes has joined Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming 16th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) season on a one-year deal.
England’s star all-rounder had received several big offers from the Big Bash League clubs, with the Sydney Sixers, Melbourne Renegades, and Adelaide Strikers trying to sign the New Zealander. Amid this, Glenn Phillips pulled off an amazing one-handed catch in a CPL 2026 clash.
Ben Stokes joins Adelaide Strikers for BBL|16 in blockbuster deal
However, Ben Stokes has now locked the deal with Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming BBL 16, and the other teams have reportedly been informed of his decision.
Stokes will be available for the Adelaide Strikers for the full Big Bash League 2026-27 tournament. He has reportedly signed the deal of around AUD $500,000 with the Strikers for the upcoming season. Amid this, Mumbai Indians retain Mahela Jayawardene as IPL 2027 coach.
Speaking about the historic deal, Ben Stokes said that he is very happy to join Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming Big Bash League 2026-27. The all-rounder said that he really enjoys playing in Australia and is excited to play at the famous Adelaide Oval.
Ben Stokes reveals big reason behind Adelaide Strikers move
Stokes said in a statement as quoted by cricket.com.au, "I'm really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL '16." I've always enjoyed playing in Australia, and when the opportunity came up to join the Strikers, it was one I couldn't pass up.
Adelaide Oval is an incredible place to play cricket, the Big Bash is a fantastic competition, and the Strikers have an exciting group, so I'm looking forward to meeting the players, getting stuck in, and contributing to a successful season.”
He is looking forward to meeting his new teammates and creating memories. The all-rounder added, “I can't wait to get started, create some special memories with the group, and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about.”
Tim Paine welcomes Ashes rival Ben Stokes at Adelaide Strikers
There is also an interesting connection behind the signing. Tim Paine, who is now coaching Adelaide Strikers, was Australia’s Test captain when Stokes produced his famous heroics during the 2019 Ashes. Seven years later, Paine has now brought Stokes into his own BBL team.
Paine said in a statement, “Ben is one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen, a proven match-winner, and a competitor who thrives under pressure. We're thrilled to have a player of his ability join our squad and can't wait to see him put on a show in BBL|16.
Our fans have watched him produce some of the most memorable moments over the past decade, and now they'll have the chance to see him in Strikers blue.”
Stokes is returning to the Big Bash League after 11 years. He had made his BBL debut with the Melbourne Renegades and will now return as one of the biggest stars in the tournament.
Adelaide Strikers’ contracted players for BBL16:
Alex Carey (until BBL|17), Mackenzie Harvey (BBL|16), Thomas Kelly (BBL|16), Ben Stokes (BBL|16), Tom Straker (BBL|16), Henry Thornton (BBL|16), Lloyd Pope (BBL|16), Jason Sangha (BBL|16), Liam Scott (BBL|16), Matt Short (BBL|17), Jerrssis Wadia (BBL|17)
Uncontracted players: Hassan Ali, Cameron Boyce, Jordan Buckingham, Travis Head, Chris Lynn, Harry Manenti, Alex Ross, Tabraiz Shamsi, Luke Wood, Harry Nielsen, Jamie Overton.
