Sussex have confirmed the acquisition of South African pace bowler Keith Dudgeon as an overseas player for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.
Dudgeon played a key role in Kent’s promotion campaign this year, securing 42 wickets after a promising but injury-interrupted appearance in 2025. In total, his stint at Canterbury saw him claim 50 wickets at an average of 28.34.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Paul Farbrace, Sussex’s director of cricket, commented, “We are delighted Keith has committed the next two years to joining us at Hove. He is just the quality of player and person we have been looking for to help us to continue to grow and compete in Division One of the County Championship, and aim for the knockout stages of the Blast.”
Keith’s reputation for skill and success is welcomed at Sussex, particularly as they currently operate under financial constraints imposed by the ECB. With Farbrace taking on a part-time role now, Matt Walker has been introduced as the head coach. Meanwhile, several key figures, including club captain John Simpson and up-and-comers like Henry Crocombe, have departed. Additionally, it was confirmed that Australian opener Daniel Hughes will not return next season.
Dudgeon’s two-year agreement aims to counterbalance these changes alongside the signing of Kent allrounder Joey Evison.
Dudgeon shared his excitement about joining Sussex, stating, “Really pleased to share that I’ll be joining Sussex for the next couple of seasons. Long-term county cricket has been the goal for a while now and I am grateful for the backing in that given to me by Sussex. From everything I’ve been told, there’s a great group of lads in the dressing room, and I’m looking forward to joining them, bringing good energy and contributing to the team in whatever way I can.”
Reflecting on his time at Kent, he expressed gratitude, “A huge thank you to everyone at Kent for the past two seasons. I’m incredibly grateful for the memories, the people, and the experiences I’ve had along the way. Kent will always hold a special place for me. It’s a great club with great people and I have no doubt it will, too, go from strength to strength.”
As Sussex looks to the future, they have also announced the release of four other players at the end of their contracts: Brad Currie, Harrison Ward, Troy Henry, and Nantes Oosthuizen.
