Ben Stokes joins Adelaide Strikers for Big Bash League

Former England captain Ben Stokes has joined Adelaide Strikers for the 2026-27 season of the T20 Big Bash League.

The 35-year-old made the shock decision to retire from international cricket in June, with the announcement coming during the third and final Test of a 2-1 home series defeat against New Zealand.

Stokes played 122 Tests, 114 one-day internationals and 43 T20s for England.

He scored a superb 84 in the final against New Zealand when England dramatically won the World Cup for the first time in 2019.

"I'm really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL 16," said Stokes.

"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.

"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.

"I can't wait to get started, create some special memories with the group and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about."

Adelaide said Stokes, who had a brief stint at fellow BBL side Melbourne Renegades in 2015, would be available for the whole of the BBL 16 campaign, which starts in December.

"Ben is one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen, a proven match-winner and a competitor who thrives under pressure," said Adelaide Strikers head coach Tim Paine, whose side start their BBL season against Sydney Thunder on 16 December.

"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."