The biggest BBL signing of the year is at Adelaide. Ben Stokes has signed with the Strikers for the whole 2026/27 season in a deal reported at around A$500,000, and he will be reunited with Tim Paine, who is now the club's head coach.
The Strikers finished sixth last season. With Stokes, Alex Carey and captain Matt Short in the squad, they look like a very different side.
Adelaide Strikers at a glance
How last season went
The Strikers won four of their ten games in BBL|15 and finished sixth with 8 points. Their one title came in BBL|07 (2017-18), when they beat Hobart Hurricanes in the final at Adelaide Oval.
The club also holds a piece of record-book history from the other side: in December 2022 they bowled Sydney Thunder out for 15, the lowest total in BBL history.
Adelaide Strikers squad so far
Contracted players named for 2026/27 (club announcements).
Adelaide Strikers fixtures in IST
Strikers fantasy picks
- Ben Stokes: the reported A$500,000 signing is available for the whole season. Bat, ball and fielding points make him a premium allrounder.
- Matt Short: captain and an opening allrounder. In a team that is bowling second often, his powerplay runs are a key source of points.
- Alex Carey: the wicketkeeper-batter, which means points for runs and for catches and stumpings.
- Lloyd Pope: a leg-spinner and the most likely differential in the squad.
Facts worth knowing
- The Strikers dismissed Sydney Thunder for 15 in December 2022, the lowest BBL total.
- Stokes is the first overseas player signed under the BBL's new direct-contract system.
Squads for BBL 2026/27 are still being finalised, so confirm the playing XI on each match page before you lock. CricketDream adds every confirmed squad to the games as it is announced.
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Open BBL hubFrequently asked questions
Has Ben Stokes signed for the BBL?
Yes, with Adelaide Strikers for the 2026/27 season, reported at around A$500,000.
Who is the Adelaide Strikers captain?
Matt Short, with Tim Paine as head coach.
How many BBL titles do the Strikers have?
One, in BBL|07 (2017-18).
Where do the Strikers play?
At Adelaide Oval.
Is CricketDream fantasy free to play?
Yes. Fantasy XI, Draft, Multi-Draft, Predictor, Cricket Quiz and CricketQuest are all completely free, with no entry fees and no cash prizes.