More than a decade after his last appearance in the Big Bash League, Ben Stokes is returning to Australia after agreeing to a blockbuster deal with the Adelaide Strikers.

The retired England captain has opted for Adelaide following a three-way battle for his signature, with the Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades missing out on the superstar all-rounder.

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The 35-year-old will be available for the entire tournament.

Stokes is reportedly set to earn around AUD $500,000 for the season.

“I’m really excited to be joining the Adelaide Strikers for BBL|16,” Stokes said in a statement.

“I’ve always enjoyed playing in Australia, and when the opportunity came up to join the Strikers it was one I couldn’t pass up.

“Adelaide Oval is an incredible place to play cricket, the Big Bash is a fantastic competition and the Strikers have an exciting group, so I’m looking forward to meeting the players, getting stuck in and contributing to a successful season.

“I can’t wait to get started, create some special memories with the group and give Strikers fans plenty to cheer about.”

Cricket Australia has also reportedly been involved in efforts to lure Stokes back to the BBL, viewing the former England skipper as a major acquisition capable of providing the competition with a significant boost in star power.

There is now greater certainty around what clubs can offer leading international players following the conclusion of the BBL’s embargo period last week.

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Stokes is considered the premier marquee signing on the market, while New Zealand star Tim Seifert has also attracted attention following a dominant Hundred campaign in the UK.

The move will mark Stokes’ first BBL appearance in more than a decade, having last featured in the competition for the Melbourne Renegades during the 2014/15 season.

Stokes played four matches for the Renegades, scoring 128 runs at an average of 32, including a blistering 77 from 37 deliveries against the Hobart Hurricanes.

He also contributed with the ball, sending down 30 deliveries across his four appearances and taking three wickets for 61 runs.

Stokes’ return to Australia comes after the 35-year-old retired from Test cricket during the English summer, ending any prospect of one final Ashes appearance when Australia tours England in 2027.

Originally published as Stokes joins BBL team: Three-way Aussie battle for superstar ends in stunning $500k coup