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Ben Stokes gives Adelaide Strikers massive BBL boost
Oliver Caffrey, AAP •  September 1st, 2026 9:30 pm
Adelaide fans have plenty to look forward to this BBL summer with the arrival of Ben Stokes | Photo: AP
Former England captain Ben Stokes will be available for the Adelaide Strikers' entire campaign in a massive boost for the Big Bash League.
After his bombshell retirement from international cricket in June, Stokes has wasted no time in entertaining offers from T20 leagues.
Also weighing up offers from the Sydney Sixers and the in-transition Melbourne Renegades, the matchwinning allrounder settled on the Strikers and is sure to help bring in big crowds to the Adelaide Oval.
The 35-year-old previously played in the BBL back in 2014-15, featuring in four matches for the Renegades, before he was one of the biggest names in world cricket.
"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," Stokes said in a statement.
Superstar Ben Stokes is looking forward to joining the Strikers at Adelaide Oval | Photo: AP
"I can't wait to get started, create some special memories with the group and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about."
The 122-Test star will be led by Adelaide coach Tim Paine, who captained Australia when Stokes belted a classic unbeaten century to help England to a defining win at Headingley in 2019.
"Ben is one of the greatest allrounders 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."
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