Renowned Indian fast bowler Jaydev Unadkat is set to embark on his first-ever County Championship journey as he signs up with Sussex, a move that reunites him with his fellow India and Saurashtra teammate, Cheteshwar Pujara.
Unadkat’s participation with Sussex is expected to span at least three of the team’s remaining four matches, commencing with the game against Durham on September 3. However, there is a possibility that he might miss the team’s final match due to his potential involvement in leading Saurashtra during the Irani Cup, which is slated to begin on October 1.
Unadkat said
Expressing his enthusiasm, Unadkat stated, “I have been following the team’s recent run of success and I had a nice conversation with Paul [Farbrace, Sussex head coach] and it looks like I can definitely add value and contribute towards the team’s goals.” He added, “The English County Championship has a wonderful legacy, and I was keen to grab the opportunity whenever I can and it seems to be the right time for me at this point in my career.”
The 31-year-old Unadkat recently represented India in two Test matches against the West Indies, although he remained wicketless. He did, however, manage to secure a wicket in the solitary ODI he played during the tour.
With an impressive career spanning 103 first-class matches, including four Tests, Unadkat has accumulated 382 first-class wickets at a commendable average of 22.58 and an economy rate of 2.94. He captained Saurashtra to their maiden Ranji Trophy title in 2020, a campaign during which he clinched 67 wickets, setting a record for the most wickets taken by a fast bowler in a single season.
Having successfully led Saurashtra to their second title this year, earning the Player-of-the-Match accolade in the final against Bengal, Unadkat’s cricketing prowess and leadership abilities are highly regarded.
Paul Farbrace, Sussex’s head coach, expressed his excitement about Unadkat’s inclusion, noting, “We are delighted that Jaydev will join us for the September championship period. His record is outstanding, and we will be looking for Jaydev to share his experience with our developing team.”
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