Steve Smith has agreed a short-term deal to play three County Championship matches for Sussex forward of this summer time’s Ashes.
The world’s No.2 Test batter will likely be obtainable in May for journeys to Worcestershire and Leicestershire and a house fixture towards Australian teammate Marnus Labuschagne’s Glamorgan.
He may additionally discover himself going through England pacer Jofra Archer, who famously sconed Smith at Lord’s within the 2019 collection, within the Sussex nets.
Archer performs for Sussex, however the fast’s rehabilitation from damage is being rigorously managed.
Smith is keen to play first-class cricket in English situations in preparation for the Ashes, which occur in June and July.
Australia may additionally qualify for June’s World Test Championship closing at The Oval.
The 33-year-old, who had a spell taking part in T20 for Worcestershire in 2010, registered 774 runs at a median of 110.57 within the final Ashes collection in England in 2019.
Sussex, who completed second backside in Division Two in 2022, had an abroad emptiness following an damage to West Indies seamer Jayden Seales.
Sussex Cricket CEO Rob Andrew mentioned in a press release: “To have arguably the world’s best batter play for Sussex just before an eagerly-awaited Ashes Test series is great for us and the County Championship.
“Our Championship kind has not been ok for quite a lot of years and beneath the brand new route of head coach Paul Farbrace, we wish to be constructive and bold.
“Being able to attract a player of Steve Smith’s calibre is a massive statement and will be of great benefit to our young homegrown players, particularly our crop of talented young batters.”
Smith has by no means had an excessive amount of bother batting in England, averaging slightly below 60 within the nation over the course of 16 Tests.
“I am excited about joining Sussex for a few games in May and hopefully making a contribution to a successful season,” mentioned Smith.
“I am particularly looking forward to working with the younger players in the squad and hoping I can provide some guidance to them.”
