Sussex has secured the services of overseas players Daniel Hughes and Jayden Seales for the 2025 County Championship, confirming that India star Cheteshwar Pujara will not be returning to the club.
Australian left-hander Hughes will be available for all Championship and T20 Vitality Blast matches next season, while West Indies fast bowler Seales will be present for the first block of Championship fixtures.
Hughes emerged as the leading run-scorer in the group stages of this year's Blast, amassing 560 runs at an average of 43.07, including five half-centuries and a top score of 96 not out. His contributions were pivotal in securing Sussex a home quarter-final against Lancashire Lightning on September 4. He is also set to play in Sussex's final five Championship games this season as the club aims for promotion to the first division.
Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace acknowledged the challenge of replacing Cheteshwar Pujara but praised Hughes for seamlessly fitting into the team. Farbrace expressed the team's delight in having Hughes back for the entire next season, highlighting his on-field excellence and the valuable experience he brings to the dressing room, which has significantly aided the development of younger players.
Pujara had returned to Sussex for a third consecutive season in 2024, participating in the first seven Championship matches before Hughes joined for the Blast and the remainder of the Championship. Together with Seales and Australian Nathan McAndrew, they comprised Sussex's overseas contingent this year. With Hughes available for the full 2025 season, Farbrace may focus on bringing in additional bowlers if the club seeks further overseas talent.
Hughes, reflecting on his time at Sussex, expressed his eagerness to return, stating that he had quickly felt at home thanks to the warm welcome from the players, coaches, and the entire Sussex community. He is excited about the potential for the rest of this season and looks forward to continuing to build into the next year.
Seales, who played in Sussex's first seven Championship games this season, took 38 wickets at an average of 25.29. His standout performance included figures of 5 for 29 against Derbyshire, helping Sussex secure a commanding innings-and-124-run victory, which solidified their position at the top of the second division.
Recently, Seales claimed 13 wickets in the Test series against England, bringing his total to 62 wickets in 15 appearances for the West Indies. Farbrace described Seales as a "fabulous bowler and a high-quality person," praising his consistent effort and determination throughout the early season, regardless of conditions or match situations.
In related news, Glamorgan announced the signing of New Zealand seamer Fraser Sheat for the upcoming month of County Championship matches. Sheat, who has played 33 first-class games and taken 103 wickets at an average of 25.08, will join Glamorgan's squad as their season resumes against Derbyshire on Thursday.