Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has signed a deal with the Australian T20 Big Bash team Adelaide Strikers. This move could see him earn nearly £3m on the lucrative franchise circuit.
Stokes, who retired from international cricket in June, has not participated in franchise cricket since the 2024 Hundred. His new month-long deal with the Strikers is reported to be worth around £250,000.
The 35-year-old could potentially spend next year playing in top cricketing markets, including India, the UK, the United States, and the Caribbean, accumulating earnings close to £3m within 12 months. His previous Indian Premier League contract in 2023 was valued at £1.6m, and he could expect a similar sum in 2027.
Stokes expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL 16.” He added, “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.”