Adelaide Strikers keep stacking stars. New Zealand left-hander Mark Chapman has signed a full-season deal for BBL|16, joining Ben Stokes and Matt Short under coach Tim Paine.
Chapman, 32, has one of cricket’s more unusual paths. He debuted for Hong Kong in 2014 before switching to New Zealand in 2018, and has since played T20, ODI and 50-over World Cups for the Black Caps. Earlier this year he gave up his New Zealand central contract to chase franchise cricket full-time. The form is there: 69 off 33 balls for Islamabad United in the PSL this year, plus a stint for Washington Freedom alongside Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell.
For the Strikers, the fit is clear. A proven left-hander in the middle order, full-season availability, and World Cup experience in a squad already carrying Stokes. Adelaide are quietly building one of the strongest batting line-ups in the league.
Here is the angle fans will argue about. Chapman is part of a growing trend: players dropping national contracts for franchise money. International purists hate it. BBL fans will love it, because it means full-season signings instead of two-week cameos.
Is this Chapman’s first BBL club?
Yes. He has never played in the Big Bash before.
Why did he leave New Zealand’s contract system?
To play franchise leagues around the world without scheduling clashes.
Who else have the Strikers signed?
Ben Stokes headlines their overseas signings for BBL|16, with Chapman the latest addition.
Last verified: 12 October 2026