Pujara Departs Sussex as Hughes Returns for Full Season

Cheteshwar Pujara Departs Sussex for Daniel Hughes' Return

Indian Test stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara will not be returning to Sussex for the 2023 County Championship season. The English club has opted to retain Australian Daniel Hughes, who will be available for all Championship and T20 Vitality Blast matches next year.

Pujara, a renowned Test specialist, had rejoined Sussex for a third stint in 2024. He featured in the first seven Championship matches before Hughes' arrival. However, the club has decided to prioritize Hughes' availability for the entire season.

Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace praised Hughes' contributions, stating, "Taking over from Cheteshwar is not an easy task, but Dan has fitted in brilliantly and we are all delighted he will be back for the whole of next season."

Hughes emerged as Sussex's leading run-scorer in the group stages of this year's Blast, amassing 560 runs at an average of 43.07. He notched up five half-centuries and a career-best 96 not out. His heroics helped Sussex reach the quarterfinals after defeating Lancashire Lightning at home on September 4.

Farbrace further lauded Hughes' impact, saying, "Dan has been top class for us on and off the field. He has brought a wealth of experience to the dressing room and has seriously helped some of our young batters with the development of their games."

In addition to his role in the Blast, Hughes will also feature in Sussex's final five Championship matches of the current campaign.

Tags: #CheteshwarPujara, #DanielHughes, #Sussex, #CountyChampionship, #T20VitalityBlast