Ben Stokes Set To Play For Adelaide Strikers in BBL 16

Adelaide Strikers have signed England all-rounder Ben Stokes for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 16 season. Widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders of his generation, the 35-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable international career spanning more than 15 years, establishing himself as a proven match-winner with both bat and ball on the biggest stages.

Stokes will be available for the entire 2026-27 season. He is also the first overseas player to sign with a BBL club since the new contracting system was confirmed last week. The new system has brought back direct signings and gives teams more freedom when deciding how much to spend on players.

This change has made it possible for teams to make major deals like Stokes’ signing. Several reports have put his contract at around US$360,000, which is much higher than the previous top Platinum-level figure under the draft system. It could also mean that other overseas players arriving in the next few weeks will receive similarly big contracts.

It should be noted that several BBL clubs were interested in signing Stokes, but Adelaide Strikers have won the race for his signature. The team is coached by former Australia captain Tim Paine, who was in charge of the Test side when Stokes produced his famous Headingley heroics in 2019.

"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.” said Ben Stokes in a statement.

"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.” added Ben Stokes.

"I can't wait to get started, create some special memories with the group and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about." added Ben Stokes.

Strikers coach Tim Paine also applauded the signing of Stokes, saying he is an incredible all-rounder who will bring great value to the team in the upcoming BBL edition.

"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." said Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine.

Stokes is set to return to the BBL for the first time since playing four matches for Melbourne Renegades during the 2014-15 season. His campaign with Adelaide Strikers will begin on December 16, when they take on Sydney Thunder in Canberra.