Sussex replace Cheteshwar Pujara with Hughes for 2025 County Championship
Sussex have refrained from retaining India's specialist Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara for the upcoming 2025 County Championship. Instead, the English club has chosen to extend its contract with Australian cricketer Daniel Hughes. The left-hander will be available for all the County Championship and T20 Vitality Blast games in the next season. Additionally, West Indies seamer Jayden Seales will also participate in the initial block of Championship fixtures. Pujara had returned to Sussex for a third successive County season in 2024.
Hughes's performance secures Sussex quarter-final spot
Hughes has proven his worth by becoming the top run-scorer in this year's Blast group stages. He has racked up 560 runs at a remarkable average of 43.07. The tally includes five fifties and a best score of 96*. This outstanding contribution has helped Sussex reach the quarter-final scheduled against Lancashire Lightning on September 4. Hughes is also set to play in Sussex's last five Championship games this season.
Seales's contribution to Sussex
Jayden Seales has also played a crucial role in Sussex's successful season. He participated in the first few Championship matches, having claimed 38 scalps at an average of 25.29. His best figures of 5/29 against Derbyshire led Sussex to an innings win, securing their position atop the second division. Seales is coming off successful Test series against England and South Africa, where he was among the wickets. He owns 62 wickets in 15 Test at 23.67 for West Indies.
Pujara's stint with Sussex
Pujara, who joined Sussex in 2022, made his mark in the County Championship. He also led the prestigious side in July that year, having scored a century on his captaincy debut. His ton came against Middlesex in the 2022 season.
