Former England captain Ben Stokes has signed for Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League (BBL) 16.
The 35-year-old will be available for the whole tournament, which is scheduled to run from mid-December to January 2027. Stokes deal is reportedly set for £260,000 ($351,000), and he became the first player to join the tournament since the new structure was confirmed last week.
Australia’s premier T20 competition has returned the BBL to a direct-signing model and given clubs more freedom in where they put their money.
Following the signing, Ben Stokes shared his excitement in a statement.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers. 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 Stokes, who played 122 Tests, 114 ODIs and 43 T20s for England.
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He added that Big Bash was an exciting competition and he was looking forward to playing in the tournament.
“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.”
Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine also hailed Stokes as a proven match-winner and praised his ability.
“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.”
Stokes have previously featured in the BBL, turning out for Melbourne Renegades in 2014-15 season.
The BBL 16 opening match will be played on 12 December between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers in Chennai.