Australian Test wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey has cemented his long-term future with the Adelaide Strikers, signing a four-year deal that will likely see him remain with the franchise for the rest of his career. Carey, who has been an integral part of the Strikers since his debut in the KFC Big Bash League (BBL) in 2017, is now set to become a “Striker for life.”
Over the past eight seasons, Carey has made 56 appearances for the Strikers, amassing 1,837 runs at a strike rate of 129. This achievement places him as the second-highest run-scorer in the club’s history. Notably, he holds the record for most centuries by a Strikers player, with two remarkable hundreds against the Hobart Hurricanes in BBL|07 and the Brisbane Heat in BBL|10, both at the iconic Adelaide Oval. His innings of 100 off 56 balls and 101 off 62 balls in those matches remain etched in the memories of Strikers fans.
Carey was also a key figure in the Strikers’ maiden BBL title win during BBL|07, where his performances were crucial to their success. Reflecting on his new contract, Carey expressed his excitement about continuing his journey with the Strikers, particularly enjoying the opportunity to play in front of the passionate Adelaide Oval crowd.
“I’m thrilled to sign on for another four years with the Strikers and can’t wait to get out and play in front of family, friends, and fans at Adelaide Oval where the atmosphere is the best of any cricket ground in the world,” Carey said. “I love getting back in the blue shirt every chance I get and look forward to building on the momentum the boys generated towards the end of last season to push for more silverware.”
In addition to his batting prowess, Carey has been exceptional behind the stumps, holding the record for the most dismissals by a Strikers player with 59 catches and stumpings. His experience spans across 32 Test matches, 72 One Day Internationals, and 38 T20 Internationals for Australia, making him one of the most accomplished cricketers in the country. Carey was a member of Australia’s victorious World Test Championship squad and the ICC ODI World Cup squad from last year, and he was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 98 that secured a thrilling Test win against New Zealand in March.
His signing comes as a significant boost for the Strikers, who will be led by newly appointed head coach Tim Paine, Carey’s predecessor as Australia’s Test wicketkeeper. Paine praised Carey’s contributions to the team, highlighting his leadership, batting versatility, and outstanding wicketkeeping.
“Alex brings great experience and strong leadership to our group in addition to his 360-degree batting skills and outstanding glovework,” Paine said. “A favorite among Strikers fans, he is a proven big-game player and a crucial part of our squad which is keen to hit the ground running in BBL|14.”
Carey’s long-term commitment strengthens an already formidable Strikers batting lineup, which includes power hitters Matt Short, Chris Lynn, and D’Arcy Short—all of whom had impressive performances at Adelaide Oval last season.
The Adelaide Strikers will kick off their BBL|14 campaign against the Sydney Thunder in Canberra on December 17, followed by high-profile home games at Adelaide Oval against the Melbourne Stars, Hobart Hurricanes, Perth Scorchers, Brisbane Heat, and Sydney Sixers. With Carey now locked in, the Strikers are poised for another exciting season in the Big Bash League.
