Paul Farbrace has left Sussex behind to become Lancashire’s new Director of Cricket, just as he was set to occupy the same role in a part-time capacity at Sussex. This noteworthy move comes after Farbrace had previously announced his plan to step down from his head coach position following the end of the County Championship season.
Farbrace, with a rich history in leadership roles including as head coach for England’s women’s team and assistant coach for the men’s, had agreed to continue at Hove as a part-time director to assist the club’s transition. This follows the appointment of Matt Walker, former Kent player and Warwickshire’s batting coach, as the upcoming head coach.
Despite facing financial difficulties, with an operating loss of £1.33 million reported in the 2024-25 financial year leading to ECB’s special measures, Sussex impressively secured third place in Division One of this year’s County Championship. This was achieved amid significant squad changes, including high-profile exits such as seamer Henry Crocombe to Surrey and wicketkeeper John Simpson to Nottinghamshire. Australian import Daniel Hughes was another notable departure, emphasising the financial pressures felt at Sussex. Farbrace had marked the beginning of the season with a poignant reminder that it was “now or never” for Sussex to add to its silverware collection, following their 2024 promotion.
The move to Lancashire sees Farbrace join a club looking to regain its standing, having finished a disappointing 17th out of 18 counties in Division Two. Lancashire’s poor season led to changes at the top, including the departure of Mark Chilton, their previous head of cricket performance. The financial disparities among counties have become increasingly evident, though the success of Manchester Super Giants in the Men’s Hundred offered some relief.
Farbrace expressed a bittersweet farewell to Sussex, stating, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Hove, working with so many great people, right across the whole club…I am absolutely delighted to be joining Lancashire Cricket, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Lancashire’s incoming chief executive, Richard Kenyon, highlighted Farbrace’s experience and understanding of the game’s broader landscape as key factors in his appointment. “Paul’s credentials and capability for this role were obviously very clear,” Kenyon noted. “We’re really excited to have Paul on board… It was important that we moved quickly with the Director of Cricket appointment.”
Farbrace’s arrival at Lancashire signals a significant step in their plans to rebuild and challenge for trophies, aligning with the club’s strategic review aimed at overcoming recent challenges.
