Sussex Confirm Two-Year Overseas Deal for South African Seamer Keith Dudgeon

Sussex have signed South African fast bowler Keith Dudgeon as an overseas player for the 2027 and 2028 seasons. Dudgeon claimed 42 wickets for Kent during their promotion-winning campaign this summer, having made a strong impression in his sole 2025 appearance before a season-ending injury. Across his time at Canterbury, he accumulated 50 wickets at an average of 28.34.

“We are delighted Keith has committed to the next two years with us at Hove,” said Sussex director of cricket Paul Farbrace. “He is precisely the calibre of player and individual we need to help us continue developing and competing in Division One of the County Championship while targeting knockout progression in the Blast.”

“Keith’s skill, experience, and winning mentality are exactly what this squad requires at present. We eagerly anticipate welcoming him and his family to Hove as we continue propelling the club forward.”

Sussex have been managing reduced budgets following the ECB’s imposition of special measures earlier this year. Farbrace transitioned to a part-time director of cricket role, with Matt Walker installed as head coach, and several players have left the club, including skipper John Simpson, England prospect Henry Crocombe, all-rounder Fynn Hudson-Prentice, and top-order batsman Tom Alsop.

The club also confirmed on Thursday that Australian opener Daniel Hughes, who spent the past three seasons at Hove, will not be returning.

Dudgeon’s two-year deal should help mitigate some of these departures as Sussex look to build on their third-place Division One finish, alongside the signing of Kent all-rounder Joey Evison.

“I’m really pleased to confirm I’ll be joining Sussex for the next couple of seasons. Long-term county cricket has been a goal of mine for some time, and I’m grateful for the support Sussex has shown in making this happen.”

“From what I’ve heard, the dressing room has a fantastic group of players, and I’m looking forward to joining them, bringing energy and contributing in whatever way I can. I’d like to thank Paul Farbrace, Matt Walker, and the captains for making this possible.”

“A huge thank you to everyone at Kent over the past two seasons. I’m deeply grateful for the memories, people, and experiences I’ve had. Kent will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a great club with great people, and I have no doubt it will continue to thrive.”

“Now is the time for a new challenge, and I’m really looking forward to what lies ahead at Sussex.”

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