Ben Stokes linked with record AUD 600,000 BBL contract

Former England captain Ben Stokes is in talks with multiple Big Bash League franchises and could become the competition's highest-paid overseas player. Reports from Code Sports indicate the Sydney Sixers lead the bidding ahead of the 2026-27 season. The proposed deal is valued at approximately AUD 600,000.

Stokes retired from international cricket in June 2026 after England's series against New Zealand. He has since returned to Durham in county cricket and expressed interest in continuing across franchise competitions. The Sixers' pursuit is strengthened by the appointment of former England white-ball coach Matthew Mott, who worked with Stokes during the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Stokes previously played in the BBL for Melbourne Renegades in 2014-15. Scheduling remains a factor, with the SA20 beginning in January potentially clashing with a proposed Christmas break in England. An IPL return remains blocked until 2028 under current BCCI rules.