Indian pacer Jaydev Unadkat is set to return to England, where he will play county cricket for Sussex County Cricket Club after being overlooked for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced four squads for the red-ball competition, but Unadkat was not included in any of them. Instead, he has chosen to continue his first-class career in England, joining Sussex for the final leg of the ongoing County Championship.
“I’m really happy to be back here,” Unadkat expressed in a video message shared on social media. “Hove is my second home. The team’s been doing fantastic this season and, hopefully, in the second leg of the season, we’re going to pull it through and get back in Division One, where we belong. Cheers!”
Previous Success with Sussex
This will be Unadkat’s second stint with Sussex, having previously played four matches for the club, where he took 11 wickets. His performance was instrumental in helping Sussex secure a respectable position in the County Championship. Sussex Head Coach Paul Farbrace expressed enthusiasm for Unadkat’s return, stating, “We are all delighted that Jaydev is returning to the 1st Central County Ground for the final five championship matches of the coming season.”
Farbrace praised Unadkat not only for his on-field contributions but also for his positive influence on the team. “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,” he added.
Aiming for Redemption and Future Opportunities
Unadkat’s decision to join Sussex comes as he aims to showcase his skills in England and make a strong case for his inclusion in the Indian red-ball setup. His absence from the Duleep Trophy squads has fueled his determination to perform well in the County Championship, as he seeks to regain a spot on the national team.
The left-arm pacer made a remarkable comeback to the Indian Test side in December 2022 after a 12-year hiatus, playing against Bangladesh. His impressive domestic performances, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, have kept him in contention for national selection. Unadkat’s last season with Sussex was marked by significant contributions, and he hopes to replicate that success in the upcoming matches.
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