Mark Robinson, the accomplished former coach of England Women’s cricket, is set to make a return to Sussex as their new director of cricket. Robinson’s previous tenure at Sussex from 2005 to 2015 saw the club win two County Championships under his guidance. His return fills the part-time position initially intended for Paul Farbrace, who recently decided to assume a full-time role as director of cricket at Lancashire.
Robinson, aged 59, was recently at the helm of Warwickshire where he led them to a Championship and Bob Willis Trophy victory in 2021. He departed Warwickshire in early 2025 and has since been serving as the director of cricket at the Brighton Aldridge Community Academy (BACA). He will continue this role alongside his responsibilities at Sussex.
Farbrace’s move to Lancashire occurred right after four years as Sussex’s head coach, driven by cost-cutting measures enforced by the ECB. With Matt Walker stepping in from Warwickshire to oversee the first team, Robinson’s new appointment arrives at a crucial juncture.
Robinson’s association with Sussex goes back to his days as a player, followed by a successful stint after succeeding Peter Moores as head coach. He later led England Women to World Cup glory in 2017. Reflecting on his return, Robinson stated, “I’m delighted to be back at Hove in a position where I can play my part in helping Sussex continue to be one of the most respected clubs in the country. We have taken some hits in the last year and as a club have some work still to be done, and I am determined to contribute to ensure a bright future here at Sussex.”
Robinson emphasised the importance of his dual role, saying, “The flexibility of my role also allows me still to be hands on at BACA. So many of our cricket students come from all over the county and show such dedication, some leaving as early as 6.30am, many catching two trains to get in to school to follow their dreams. It’s lovely, and means a lot to me, that I can continue to help influence the next generation of male and female cricketers for both the school and at Sussex.”
Coinciding with Robinson’s appointment, Beth Barrett-Wild has been announced as the new chief executive of Sussex, assuming her role on January 1st. She takes over from interim CEO, Alex Paterson, amidst efforts to stabilise the club’s financial standing.
Paterson remarked, “Mark knows Sussex Cricket inside out having successfully played and coached here over more than 15 years, including winning the County Championship twice. Mark has a fantastic understanding of our pathway and the cricketers at BACA and he will continue to provide an excellent segue for the most talented into Sussex Cricket. I am delighted that Mark is rejoining and supporting all of our teams and coaches with his invaluable expertise.”
