Ben Stokes joins Adelaide Strikers for BBL summer

Former England cricket captain Ben Stokes has committed to the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season by signing with Adelaide Strikers, the team has announced. Stokes' signing was anticipated earlier in the week but has now been officially confirmed by the Strikers, who expressed their excitement about incorporating the world-class talent and match-winning abilities of the all-rounder into their squad.

Stokes bid farewell to international cricket in June, a decision that left a significant impact and was revealed during a Test match. Following his stint with the Melbourne Renegades in 2015, the 35-year-old is set to join Adelaide's squad, eager to make his mark in the BBL.

Stokes, who captained England in a team expected to challenge Australia for the Ashes in the 2025/26 season, made his Test debut at Adelaide in 2013 and captained the side that was widely expected to challenge Australia for the Ashes. However, England suffered a 4-1 defeat, and Stokes' exit from international cricket was announced shortly before the tea break on day four of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.

The 35-year-old is known for his impactful performances, including his 135 not out against Australia at Headingley in 2019, which secured a one-wicket victory for England, and his 155 against Australia in a losing cause at Lord's in 2023. His career boasts over 11,000 international runs across T20, ODI, and Test formats, solidifying his status as one of the most influential and indispensable cricketers of the current era.