Ben Stokes has joined Adelaide Strikers for the 2026-27 Big Bash League season, marking his return to Australian domestic cricket after nearly 12 years away. The 35-year-old England star, who earned $357,000 for the contract, last played in the Big Bash during a brief stint with Melbourne Renegades in 2015. Stokes will be available for the entire BBL 16 campaign, which begins in December.
Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket in June 2026 during the third Test of a 2-1 home series defeat against New Zealand. During that series, he was dropped by England for the second Test amid an investigation following a night out with a teammate after the first Test at Lord’s. His move to Adelaide Strikers comes as he transitions to domestic and franchise cricket.
“Yeah, I’ve got a new housemate… big Stokesy! He’s going to play and kick up at mine for a few weeks, and I’ll make sure to look after him. I’ll probably keep how I look after him offline; he’s been in enough trouble over the last six weeks. They stay one street back from Hindley Street, so those bright lights I’m worried about it but he’ll be right,” Head said as quoted by The West Australian.
Paine: Stokes made to open for Adelaide Strikers
Head’s offer of accommodation in Adelaide
While Stokes was public enemy number one during last summer’s Ashes, Head said his signing is a massive boost for the Big Bash and hopes it could help attract more international stars.
“It’s one of the biggest signings the Big Bash has had in years. We haven’t had that calibre for years now, but to get that quality into the Big Bash. There’s a lot of conversation around the competition and how we get big superstars and test stars playing, and I think the competition can turn into a powerhouse. It’s probably not where it wants to be at the minute and I look forward to that changing over the next few years,” Head said.
