Ben Stokes eyes Big Bash return, Sydney Sixers emerge as front-runners

After quitting Test cricket, England all-rounder Ben Stokes is reportedly considering a move to the BBL, with the Sydney Sixers seen as the most likely destination.

Ben Stokes stepped away from Test cricket in late June, opening the possibility of a Big Bash League comeback after a ten-year gap since playing for the Melbourne Renegades. As he frees up his calendar, every Australian franchise is monitoring his availability, but the Sydney Sixers have taken the lead, largely due to the appointment of former England white-ball coach Matthew Mott as head coach, a partnership that helped England win the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Hobart Hurricanes chief Dom Baker also indicated his club would move quickly if Stokes became available, highlighting the player’s draw for ticket sales. The league’s overseas draft has been scrapped, permitting clubs to sign overseas talent directly for sums exceeding $300,000. While Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers' Association continue to negotiate revised player-list rules, insiders say the signs are positive for a Stokes signing. Other overseas stars such as Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Lockie Ferguson and Jamie Overton are also generating interest ahead of the season.