Robinson to captain Sussex in County Championship

Sussex have shaken up to their leadership structure for the 2026 season with Ollie Robinson taking over as captain for the County Championship and Jack Carson leading the one-day side.

Former skipper John Simpson, 37, will take a step back from leading in two formats to mentor Carson as well as providing support for Robinson and Tymal Mills, who continues to lead the T20 team.

Robinson, who has been vice-captain to Simpson since 2021, hopes to lead Sussex to another title challenge after a strong showing to finish fourth on their return to the top flight in 2025 following promotion from Division Two.

"We have a talented, committed group, and my focus will be on setting high standards on and off the field, playing positive cricket, and giving ourselves the best chance to compete consistently at the highest level," Robinson told the club website.

Director of cricket Paul Farbrace added: "Ollie has shown in the past he is a very good captain, with an excellent cricket brain, and he will lead the Championship team for the coming season, supported by Tom Haines.

"We believe is the best leadership combination to help us achieve our goal of competing to win the County Championship."

Farbrace described Carson, 25, as a future leader of the county. He will be closely supported by Simpson as he leads the club in the Metro Bank One Day Cup which starts in July with the final in September.

Sussex made the announcement against a backdrop of financial uncertainty after a report in the Guardian on Sunday claimed they have been placed in special measures by the England and Wales Cricket Board for financial mismanagement and alleged breaches of sustainability regulations.

The club have responded by asking for patience from supporters and members as they work through an "ongoing process" but insist they are confident they will "find a constructive solution and a positive way forward for the club".