New Delhi, September 2: Former England captain Ben Stokes will be playing for the Adelaide Strikers in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season.
This was confirmed on Tuesday. Adelaide Strikers’ coach Tim Paine shared insights about signing Stokes.
Paine stated in a press conference, “We identified Stokes as a player who can impact the team far beyond his on-field performance. He excels in various aspects. I believe there are elements about Stokes that are beyond comprehension. His presence, leadership, and connection with fans are truly unique. There are very few players in the world who possess such a diverse skill set. He remains at an exceptionally high level as a cricketer. We made this decision quickly and pursued him aggressively.”
Paine added, “Stokes provides us with tremendous flexibility. My initial discussions revolved around how we would utilize him. The fast, bouncy wickets in Australia suit him perfectly. Therefore, he is also well-suited to open the innings. I have experienced some dangerous innings in Test cricket where you feel you cannot defend the field. He can play 360 degrees. He possesses both power and class. His skill level with the bat and his ability against spin make him a world-class all-rounder. We believe this is probably the best fit for him and us.”
The former Australian captain is hopeful that Stokes will contribute significantly not only with the bat but also with the ball and in the field.
Discussing Stokes’ bowling, Paine remarked, “He can surprise people with the ball. I have played against him. He thinks a bit faster than others. He has excellent skills and can swing the ball both ways. We believe we can utilize him in all phases of the game with the ball as well.”
Paine emphasized that Stokes’ presence could generate considerable interest in the BBL.
He noted, “He is a player who has always attracted attention due to his personality and style of play. I think we have seen in the last 24 hours how much light he has shed on the Big Bash just with his announcement. I am sure when he arrives in Adelaide and starts scoring runs and taking wickets, that interest will only grow.”
Stokes is among the players participating in the new direct-signing system, which has replaced the overseas player draft. In his overall T20 career, Ben Stokes has played 162 matches, scoring 3,027 runs with 2 centuries and 10 half-centuries, while taking 93 wickets.