Ben Stokes could take on an unfamiliar role when he returns to the Big Bash League, with Adelaide Strikers considering the England all-rounder as a potential opening batter for the upcoming season.
Adelaide confirmed a one-year deal with Stokes on Tuesday, securing the services of one of international cricket’s most recognisable all-rounders. The possibility of having him available throughout the season has particularly pleased head coach Tim Paine, who believes Stokes can offer considerably more than his contributions with bat and ball.
Paine also sees the England star as someone capable of influencing the squad through his leadership and experience. Adelaide reportedly had to compete with several other clubs for his signature, with Paine acknowledging that the Strikers were determined to win the race for the experienced all-rounder.
The prospect of Stokes opening is partly linked to uncertainty surrounding Adelaide’s previous opening combination. Matt Short and Chris Lynn formed the regular partnership last season, but Lynn has yet to agree a new contract. Even if he returns, Adelaide could still reshape the top order, creating an opportunity for Stokes to move to the top of the innings.
Paine believes the Australian conditions could suit the idea. The pace and bounce commonly associated with Australian pitches may allow Stokes to exploit his powerful stroke play from the outset. Rather than asking him to settle into the middle order before accelerating later, Adelaide could give him the freedom to attack from the beginning.
Opening, however, has not been Stokes’ usual position in Twenty20 cricket. He has started only 16 of his 148 Twenty20 innings at the top of the order. Most of his experience in the format has come at numbers three, four and five.
There is nevertheless evidence to support Adelaide’s thinking. Stokes’ batting average and strike rate have been stronger when he has opened, while one of his two Twenty20 centuries came when he began the innings. Those figures provide a useful indication that the change would not necessarily be a gamble without precedent.
Stokes’ most recent Twenty20 appearance came in The Hundred in 2024, meaning his return to the Big Bash will also come after a significant period away from the format. His ability to adapt quickly will therefore be closely watched, particularly if Adelaide decide to place him at the top of the order.
Paine does not regard Stokes’ limited experience as an opener as a major concern. Instead, he believes the player’s versatility makes him particularly well suited to the position. Stokes can begin an innings in a measured manner before suddenly increasing the tempo, while his power allows him to put pressure on bowlers when the opportunity arises.
His ability against spin is another quality Adelaide are keen to utilise. Combined with his range of strokes and physical strength, it gives the Strikers confidence that he can handle different phases of an innings rather than being restricted to a single approach.
The potential move also reflects the value Adelaide place on Stokes beyond his batting position. His international experience and leadership qualities could provide an additional influence within the dressing room, while his all-round skills give the team flexibility when constructing its playing XI.
If Paine’s plan is implemented, Stokes could begin the Big Bash season in a role rarely associated with him in Twenty20 cricket. Instead of waiting for the middle overs to make his impact, he may be handed the responsibility of setting the tone from the opening delivery.
For Adelaide Strikers, the attraction is clear: an experienced international all-rounder with the power to change a match could also become an attacking option at the top of the order. Whether Stokes ultimately takes that role, and how effectively he adapts to it, will be among the most intriguing questions surrounding Adelaide’s campaign.
