Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder and former captain, has officially signed with the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming 2026-27 Big Bash League season. This move has the potential to make him the highest-paid player in BBL history, reflecting his significant value in the league. Stokes’ return to the BBL marks a notable development in his career and the competition itself.
Stokes will be available for the entire 2026-27 BBL season, joining Adelaide Strikers in a major overseas signing for the franchise. Stokes deal is worth around AU$500,000 (approximately US$360,000), according to a report by 7News. If confirmed at that level, it would surpass the previous highest Platinum draft band of AU$420,000. The franchise is coached by former Australia captain Tim Paine, who was leading the Australian Test team when Stokes produced his famous Headingley performance in 2019. During the 2022 T20 World Cup final, Stokes scored an unbeaten 52 against Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket round to help England win the title.
He is also the first overseas player to sign under the competition’s newly confirmed contracting structure, which has returned the BBL to a direct-signing model.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL|16,” Stokes said in a statement. The new system gives BBL clubs greater flexibility in allocating their budgets, paving the way for high-profile overseas signings. Stokes attracted interest from several BBL clubs before Adelaide Strikers secured his services on a one-year deal. “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 also expressed his excitement about playing at Adelaide Oval and joining the Strikers squad, saying he was looking forward to contributing to a successful season and creating special memories with the team. Stokes has scored both of his T20 centuries in the IPL, but one of his most memorable performances in the format came in Australia.
