Ben Stokes signs for Adelaide Strikers in record deal
Ben Stokes signs record AU$500,000 deal with Adelaide Strikers for BBL 16, becoming the most expensive overseas signing in league history.
Ben Stokes has signed for the Adelaide Strikers for the 2026-27 Big Bash League season. The former England captain will be available for the entire campaign after agreeing to a contract worth approximately AU$500,000.
The deal makes Stokes the most expensive overseas signing in BBL history, surpassing the previous platinum draft band of AU$420,000. Stokes last played in the competition in 2014 and returns after retiring from international cricket in June.
The all-rounder adds both batting depth and bowling options to the Strikers' squad ahead of the upcoming season.
CricHubb Take
Stokes' return to Australia reframes the BBL's value proposition. When a retired international captain commands a record fee for a full-season commitment, the league signals its intent to compete directly with franchise T20 competitions for elite talent.