NEW DELHI: Left-arm pace bowler Jaydev Unadkat is set to rejoin the English club side Sussex for the final five matches of the County Championship season.
During the previous season, the 32-year-old, who boasts four Test appearances for India, participated in three out of the last four County Championship fixtures for Sussex. His contribution of 11 wickets at an average of 24.18 significantly bolstered the team, leading to a commendable third-place finish in Division 2.
Unadkat's standout performance came against Leicestershire at Sussex's home ground, where he claimed six crucial wickets in the second innings, guiding the team to a narrow 15-run victory.
Having last represented India during the two-Test series against the West Indies in 2023, Unadkat, who captained Saurashtra to their inaugural Ranji Trophy triumph in the 2019-20 season, expressed his anticipation to return to Hove.
"It was at Hove last season when we won a last-day thriller against Leicestershire, that gave me a sense of belongingness to county cricket, and to Sussex as my home," said Unadkat in a statement.
"When (head coach) Farby (Paul Farbrace) offered me a contract this season for the last leg of the championship, I was sure I wanted to come back and hopefully win games with the guys.
"While my first county season was good, I can't wait to be back and push for that promotion this summer which everyone at Hove is rooting for!" he added.
Sussex head coach Farbrace said Unadkat had shown his class during the last season and hoped the Indian would continue in the same vein this season.
"We are all delighted that Jaydev is returning to The 1st Central County Ground for the final five championship matches of the coming season.
"Jaydev lived up to the expectation that not only would he show his class on the field, but he would also be a fantastic person and be part of what we are all trying to achieve. Jaydev is a lovely guy who did everything he could to help our players and share his fantastic knowledge," said Farbrace.
Unadkat will don the Sunrisers Hyderabad jersey in the upcoming edition of the IPL following which he will be available for county stint.
(With inputs from PTI)
