On Tuesday, September 1, the Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Adelaide Strikers roped in the England veteran all-rounder Ben Stokes for the upcoming BBL 2026-27 season. Notably, the all-rounder will be available for the entire BBL 16 edition.
The BBL 2026-27 season commences on December 12 with Melbourne Renegades playing Perth Scorchers at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The finals are scheduled from January 19 to January 26.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL|16,” Stokes said.
“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,” he added.
“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 stated.
“I can’t wait to get started, create some special memories with the group and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about,” Stokes concluded.
Stokes’ reported salary at the BBL 2026-27 season would be AU$500,000 (US$360,000 approx.) which is well above the previous highest band at the platinum level of the draft which was AU$420,000.
On the other hand, Adelaide Strikers Head Coach Tim Paine said securing a player of Stokes’ calibre was a major boost. He is also looking forward to seeing the franchise’s fans flock through the games to watch Stokes in action.
“Ben is one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen, a proven match-winner and a competitor who thrives under pressure,” Paine said.
“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,” he added.
“Adelaide Oval is the best place in the world to play and watch cricket, so we’re looking forward to seeing our members and fans flock through the gates to watch him in action,” Paine concluded.
