Sport: Cricket Country: England Category: Coaching

Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine selects Ben Stokes for opening role

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 5:35 AM

Last updated Sep 2, 2026

Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine selects Ben Stokes for opening role

Summary

Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine confirmed plans to deploy Ben Stokes as an opening batter. The team expects the former England captain to utilize his power and ability to play across the field at the top of the order. This strategic shift aims to maximize the impact of the player's skillset during his tenure with the club. Stokes remains a central figure in the team's tactical planning as the organization builds its lineup for the upcoming season. Paine pointed to the versatility and offensive capability of the player as primary reasons for the promotion in the batting lineup.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Tim Paine currently serves as head coach for the Adelaide Strikers.
•Ben Stokes will fill an opening position in the batting lineup.
•Coaching staff cite the player's power and 360-degree hitting range as key attributes.
•The move aims to increase the team's offensive production at the start of matches.

Latest Updates

6:08 PMYahoo Sports — Adelaide Strikers coach Tim Paine reveals Ben Stokes’ likely BBL role, hails his '360-degree' game
5:35 AMESPNcricinfo — 'Can play 360, has got power' - Stokes set for opening role with Adelaide Strikers

What they're saying

"
Ben Stokes is set to make his debut with the Adelaide Strikers in the upcoming Big Bash League season. Head coach Tim Paine emphasizes Stokes' ideal fit as an opening batsman, praising his explosive batting style and versatile all-round performance. His remarkable success rate while opening in T20 formats, coupled with his impactful bowling and fielding abilities, promises to enhance the team's competitiveness on the field.
— Yahoo Sports