Adelaide Strikers have added another international name to their squad ahead of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, strengthening their overseas options for the 2026-27 campaign. The move also means fans at Adelaide Oval will get to see Ben Stokes alongside a new international teammate, with the Strikers looking to build a competitive squad under head coach Tim Paine.

Adelaide Strikers add New Zealand star to their squad

The Strikers confirmed on September 15 that they had signed New Zealand international Mark Chapman for the entire 2026-27 BBL season. The 32-year-old left-handed batter will join Stokes and Matt Short in Adelaide as the franchise continues to shape its squad for the new campaign.

Chapman brings considerable international experience to the Strikers. His journey began with Hong Kong, for whom he made his international debut in 2014. After making an impression in New Zealand domestic cricket, he earned a call-up to the Black Caps in 2018.

Since then, Chapman has featured at several major ICC events, including the T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy. His experience across different conditions and competitions gives Adelaide another proven option in their batting group.

Plenty of T20 experience

The New Zealand star has also been active in franchise cricket around the world. Chapman recently gave up his New Zealand central contract to pursue opportunities in global leagues, allowing him to expand his experience outside international cricket. During the 2026 Pakistan Super League, he represented Islamabad United and produced a quick-fire 69 from just 33 deliveries. The innings highlighted his ability to change the momentum of a T20 game in a short period.

Chapman also featured for Washington Freedom, playing alongside established names such as Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell under the guidance of former Australia captain Ricky Ponting.

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Ben Stokes and Kiwi star add more firepower

Chapman’s record also includes several notable performances for New Zealand. In 2023, he scored an unbeaten 104 against Pakistan and was named Player of the Series. More recently, he produced an important 80 against the West Indies in July 2026, helping New Zealand secure victory in the T20I.

For the Strikers, his versatility could prove particularly useful. Chapman can provide stability when required but also has the ability to increase the scoring rate when the situation demands it.

With Stokes already part of the squad, the addition of Chapman gives Adelaide another experienced international player capable of handling pressure in T20 cricket. The combination will add further intrigue to the Strikers’ batting line-up when the 2026-27 BBL season gets underway.

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