Ben Stokes Set to Smash BBL Record? Steve Smith’s Sydney Sixers Lead Race for Ex-England Captain in $600,000 Deal

Ben Stokes could soon script another remarkable chapter in his cricketing career—this time away from international cricket. The former England captain is reportedly on the verge of becoming the highest-paid player in the history of the Big Bash League (BBL), with Sydney Sixers leading the race to secure his services for the upcoming season.

According to reports, the all-rounder is expected to command a deal worth $600,000, which would eclipse every previous player contract in the tournament’s history.

Sydney Sixers Hold the Edge in Stokes Chase

While Hobart Hurricanes are also keen to sign the star all-rounder, Sydney Sixers appear to be in pole position.

One of the biggest reasons behind their advantage is the recent appointment of Matthew Mott as the franchise’s head coach. Mott shares a successful history with Stokes, having coached England to the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title under captain Jos Buttler on Australian soil.

That existing relationship could play a decisive role as the Sixers attempt to bring one of world cricket’s biggest names to Sydney.

A Return to the Big Bash After More Than 10 Years

If the deal goes through, it will mark Ben Stokes’ first appearance in the BBL in over a decade.

His only previous stint came during the 2014-15 season, when he represented the Melbourne Renegades under Aaron Finch. Despite featuring briefly, Stokes made an immediate impact by scoring 128 runs at a blistering strike rate of 156.09.

One of his standout performances was a spectacular 77 off just 37 balls against George Bailey’s Hobart Hurricanes, helping the Renegades register a convincing victory.

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Excellent Form in Domestic Cricket

Following his retirement from international cricket, Stokes has quickly rediscovered his rhythm in England’s domestic circuit while representing Durham in the One-Day Cup.

The veteran all-rounder has accumulated 193 runs in four innings at an outstanding average of 96.50, including one century and one half-century. He currently ranks as Durham’s second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.

Although his batting has flourished, his bowling returns have been modest so far, with two wickets in the competition.

Several Franchise Leagues Await a Decision

With his international commitments behind him, Stokes now has multiple franchise opportunities on the table.

He was not part of The Hundred, Caribbean Premier League (CPL), or the Indian Premier League (IPL) player pool this season, leaving the BBL, ILT20, and SA20 as his primary options.

However, scheduling clashes between these tournaments could force Stokes to choose only one competition. His decision is expected to attract significant attention across the global T20 circuit.

For now, Stokes remains focused on domestic cricket and is expected to represent Durham against Middlesex on August 7 before making any announcement regarding his franchise future.