Tom Alsop Makes Sussex Exit, Joins Gloucestershire Until 2029

Tom Alsop will leave Sussex at the end of the current season after the club elected to slash expenses following being placed under special measures by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

The 30-year-old batsman will begin the next phase of his career before the 2027 season after signing a three-year contract with Gloucestershire.

Tom Alsop was closely identified with a move away from Hove after Sussex was forced to cut spending. He is the team’s most recent departure, following veteran all-rounder Fynn Hudson-Prentice and potential fast bowler Henry Crocombe.

Paul Farbrace, Sussex’ head coach, said that Tom Alsop’s resignation was unavoidable due to the club’s financial troubles.

In a statement released by the club, Farbrace wished the left-handed batter continued success and commended him for his outstanding efforts on and off the pitch during his time at Sussex.

“Despite researching possibilities, I’ve made this decision with a heavy heart, knowing that my future here is uncertain due to the club’s financial situation. I’ve enjoyed playing for Sussex.

I intend to live in Hove for the foreseeable future. However, I have to consider my family and what is best for my future with an offer from Gloucestershire CCC, and as a professional cricketer at this stage, stability is critical.

“I’m delighted to sign for Gloucestershire; the club, via Jon Lewis, has a clear vision of where they want to go, and hopefully I can play my part in that,” stated Alsop, as quoted by Cricinfo.

I’m excited about the opportunities that await me both on and off the pitch. “As a Wiltshire lad, it’ll be nice to be closer to home,” he continued.

Tom Alsop, who had joined on loan from Hampshire, went permanently to Sussex in 2022. With six hundreds and an average of 37.59, the left-handed hitter has a solid first-class record.

Tom Alsop has only appeared in two County Championship games this season, since Sussex has chosen to put Tom Clark at No. 3 in the batting order.

Despite his diminished red-ball involvement, he continued to play regularly in Sussex’ T20 Blast campaign; nevertheless, the squad had a difficult season and finished bottom in the South Group standings.

“Tom is a terrific batter who can perform in all formats. His experience in franchise cricket and the domestic game makes him an excellent addition to our team.

Jon Lewis, Gloucestershire’s director of cricket, praised the player’s consistent performance for Sussex, Trent Rockets, and Hampshire, as well as his resilience in the County Championship.

“He has strong links to the West Country, especially Wiltshire, so it’s a delight to see him come to Bristol.” Tom will be a significant figure in our locker room as we continue to develop this group,” he said.

Tom Alsop is now playing for Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred as part of his developing franchise cricket experience. He has previously played in the Big Bash League and the ILT20, as well as with the Trent Rockets in The Hundred.