Former England captain Ben Stokes has confirmed his return to T20 franchise cricket, signing with the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL16) season. This marks his first overseas deal since his retirement from international cricket earlier this summer.
Stokes, 35, will be available for the entire six-and-a-half-week tournament, which is scheduled to run from mid-December to January 26. He is reportedly set to earn approximately £260,000 for his involvement.
Expressing his excitement, Stokes stated, "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 head coach Tim Paine also shared his enthusiasm, calling Stokes "one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen, a proven match-winner and a competitor who thrives under pressure."