Filby is upbeat over Sussex’s 2024 hopes
Sussex Cricket chair Jon Filby admits he was saddened by Ali Orr’s switch to Hampshire – but says there are plenty of positive signs the county can have a successful 2024.
The opening batsman’s departure was a shock to Sussex fans at the end of last year after a lengthy period in which they have seen a number of star players move on.
But Filby believes their overseas and other signings for 2024 – together with the progress being made by a number of up-and-coming members of the squad – can be a recipe for sucess next summer.
Supporters will want to see a serious challenge for promotion back to Division 1 of the County Championship and much better T20 Blast and One Day Cup campaigns that they witnessed in 2023.
Filby thanked members for their support in 2023 and said: “2024 is going to be an exciting year for cricket in Sussex and an important one for cricket in England and Wales.
“We are looking forward to seeing Paul Farbrace’s team develop in 2024 and to a serious bid for overdue promotion back to the 1st Division of the County Championship, where we all believe Sussex belong.
“I was personally saddened when Ali Orr made the decision to leave us but that has very much been balanced by positive news across the rest of the squad.
“Paul Farbrace has announced an excellent group of four overseas players coming to Hove during the year including the privilege for us of once again seeing Cheteshwar Pujara wearing the Martlets.”
Apart from Pujara, with Sussex for the first seven County Championship matches, they have also signed pace bowlers Jayden Seales (until June 8) and Nathan McAndrew (June and July) and Aussie batsman Daniel Hughes (late-May onwards).
Filby added: “We are excited by the England Lions call ups for Jack Carson and James Coles and proud of Ollie Robinson and Tymal Mills who have both been picked for full England squads this winter.
“We are hearing great things about our young players around the world in the winter.
“The arrival of Danny Lamb and John Simpson has brought great new energy to the group. There is so much to look forward to.”