Paul Farbrace to Assume Director of Cricket Role at Sussex
Paul Farbrace, who has been with Sussex since 2022, will transition from his position as head coach to become the club's director of cricket starting in November. This change comes as the financially challenged Sussex club seeks to manage its resources effectively.
Farbrace had initially announced his intention to step down as head coach but will now take on the new role on a part-time basis. This arrangement provides Sussex with additional time to identify and appoint a successor for the head coach position.
"When I announced earlier this season I would be stepping down as head coach, I genuinely believed it was the right decision, and I still do," said Farbrace, a former England assistant coach, on Sussex's website. "What has changed is the opportunity to continue helping Sussex Cricket in a different role."
"I wasn't ready to say goodbye to this group of players or to everything we've worked so hard to build together. This role allows me to continue supporting the players and staff across the club as we work towards the goals we all want to achieve."
Financial Challenges and Player Departures
The announcement is a significant development for Sussex, which has been grappling with serious off-field difficulties. Farbrace previously described these challenges as "hard to deal with."
In 2025, Sussex reported a financial loss of £1.3 million. The club is expected to lose up to eight players, partly due to a salary cap that will remain in effect until 2028.
Sussex faced a 12-point deduction before the start of the current County Championship season because of "sustained operating losses." Additionally, the club received a one-point deduction in both the T20 Blast and One-Day Cup competitions.
Player Movements
Among the players departing, paceman Henry Crocombe, who was recently called up to the England Test squad during the series against New Zealand, has agreed to join Surrey at the conclusion of the season. Bowling all-rounder Fynn Hudson-Prentice will move to Hampshire in 2027 after his contract with Sussex expires.
- Hampshire sign Patel and Hudson-Prentice for 2027
- Sussex bowler Crocombe to make Surrey move
- Eight to leave Sussex as Farbrace considers future
