Matt Short captains the Adelaide Strikers in BBL|16. The dynamic all-rounder from Ballarat is one of the most improved players in Australian cricket — a clean striker and a handy off-spin option.
Matt Short: Quick Facts
| Team | Adelaide Strikers (captain) |
| Role | All-rounder |
| Batting | Right-hand bat |
| Bowling | Right-arm off spin |
| Born | 27 October 1995, Ballarat, Victoria |
| BBL|16 status | Contracted (BBL|17) |
Career Stats: All Formats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s/50s | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20 | 167 | 4197 | 28.35 | 144.22 | 2/27 | 78 | 7.88 |
| ODI | 23 | 462 | 22.00 | 87.50 | 0/4 | 6 | 5.28 |
| Test | — | ||||||
Playing Style
Short is a right-handed opener who hits the ball as cleanly as anyone in the BBL. His off spin is genuinely useful — he bowls in the Powerplay and through the middle overs, giving his captain (himself) great flexibility.
BBL Career
Short’s rise has been one of the stories of recent BBL seasons. Back-to-back strong campaigns earned him the Strikers captaincy and Australian selection. He now leads the side into a new era with Ben Stokes in the squad.
What He Brings to BBL 2027
As captain and opener, Short sets the tone for Adelaide. His own form at the top — plus his overs with the ball — makes him the team’s most important player. The Stokes signing takes some pressure off, but Short remains the man the Strikers rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who captains Adelaide Strikers in BBL 2027?
Matt Short captains the Adelaide Strikers in BBL|16.
Is Matt Short an all-rounder?
Yes — Short opens the batting and bowls right-arm off spin, making him a true all-rounder.
Which BBL team does Ben Stokes play for?
Ben Stokes plays for Adelaide Strikers in BBL|16 alongside captain Matt Short.
See all BBL 2027 teams and squads and the BBL 2027 schedule.
Last verified: 6 October 2026.