Ben Stokes signs ground-breaking BBL deal after 11 years, joins Tim Paine-coached Adelaide Strikers

Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has started his T20 franchise career journey post international cricket retirement. Stokes has signed a deal with Adelaide Strikers and can become the most expensive player in the Big Bash League (BBL) history.

Stokes has made himself available for the entire BBL 2026-27 season. He will mark his BBL return after a long absence of 11 years. He had represented Melbourne Renegades in BBL 2014-15 season playing four matches.

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Following the introduction of the new contracting structure, Stokes is the first high-profile direct signing in the BBL. Reportedly, he has joined Strikers for approximately 500,000 Australian dollars (Rs 3.39 crore approx.)

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"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,” Stokes said in an official statement.

Stokes will join former Australia Test captain Tim Paine who is current head coach of Strikers. Stokes had became Paine's headache in the Ashes 2019, guiding England to a famous Headingley win.

"Ben is one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen, a prove 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,” Paine said on roping in Stokes.

When will Stokes make his Strikers debut?

Stokes will play his first match of the season against Sydney Thunder at Manuka Oval, Canberra on December 16.

Stokes' BBL numbers

In his debut BBL season, he scored 128 runs from four innings at a strike rate of 156.09. He had scored 77 runs on debut against Hobart Hurricanes. With the ball, the pacer claimed three wickets but his economy rate was as high as 12.20 runs per over.

When was the last time Strikers won BBL?

The last time Strikers won the title was in 2017/18 season. Travis Head-led Adelaide Strikers had beaten Hobart Hurricanes in the final. Head is unlikely to be available for the entirety of the BBL. He will be busy playing in Australia's home Test series against New Zealand followed by Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2027 preparation. There is a small window between the two Test series. It is yet to be seen whether he makes himself available for the tournament.

Stokes may join his England teammates Jamie Overton and Luke Wood in the side. However, the England duo are currently uncontracted.