Former England captain Ben Stokes is reportedly set to make a sensational return to the Big Bash League (BBL) after more than a decade away from the Australian T20 competition.
The retired England all-rounder is reportedly set to join Adelaide Strikers for the BBL 2026-27 season and could be available for the entire tournament.
Stokes last featured in the Big Bash League during the 2014-15 season, making his potential comeback one of the biggest talking points ahead of the new edition.
What is the latest update on Ben Stokes’ BBL return?
According to Australian media reports, Stokes has agreed to join the Adelaide Strikers for the upcoming BBL season.
The former England star reportedly attracted interest from other franchises, including Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades, before choosing Adelaide.
Reports suggest the Strikers have already been informed about his decision. Stokes is also expected to be available for the full season, which would be a major boost for the franchise.
When will Ben Stokes return to Big Bash League?
Stokes is expected to return during the 2026-27 Big Bash League season. It would mark his first BBL appearance in around 12 years. The 35-year-old last played in Australia’s premier T20 competition during the 2014-15 season.
Where will Ben Stokes play in BBL 2026-27?
Stokes is reportedly set to represent the Adelaide Strikers. His presence would add significant experience and star power to the Strikers’ squad. The all-rounder is reportedly set to earn around AUD 500,000, approximately Rs 3.4 crore, for the season.
Why is Ben Stokes’ BBL comeback a big deal?
Stokes has been one of the biggest names in world cricket over the past decade. His ability to contribute as a powerful middle-order batter and a pace-bowling option makes him a valuable T20 player.
His reported full-season availability is also important because overseas stars often miss parts of the BBL due to international commitments.
With Stokes now retired from international cricket, he has greater freedom to participate in franchise competitions.
Ben Stokes’ previous BBL record
Stokes has previously played in the Big Bash League, representing the Melbourne Renegades in 2014-15. He made an immediate impact during that campaign, including a brilliant 77 from just 37 balls against Hobart Hurricanes.
Overall, Stokes played four matches that season and scored 128 runs at a strike rate of 156. He also picked up three wickets with the ball.
| Ben Stokes’ BBL record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Matches | 4 |
| Runs | 128 |
| Strike rate | 156 |
| Highest score | 77 |
| Wickets | 3 |
When did Ben Stokes retire from international cricket?
Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket in June 2026, with the Test against New Zealand in Nottingham marking his final appearance for England.
He finished his Test career with 7,243 runs and 252 wickets from 122 matches. Stokes also represented England in 114 ODIs and 43 T20Is. He scored 3,463 ODI runs and 585 T20I runs while taking 74 and 26 wickets, respectively.