Sussex Cricket has made a significant addition to their squad by signing Indian fast bowler Jaydev Unadkat for the first three County Championship matches in September.
This move comes as Sussex aims to solidify its position and strive for promotion to the first division of the Championship. The experienced left-arm seamer's inclusion is poised to inject both skill and mentorship into the squad, further enhancing their quest for success.
He will join Cheteshwar Pujara, his Saurashtra teammate who is enjoying a record-breaking run with the club.
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Unadkat, known for his crafty seam bowling and cricketing acumen, brings a wealth of experience to the table. With 382 first-class wickets to his name from 103 appearances at a remarkable average of 22.5, he has proven his mettle consistently on the domestic circuit.
His best bowling figures of 8-39 are a testament to his match-winning potential.
Jaydev Unadkat – an interesting journey
The 31-year-old's cricketing journey has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unyielding passion for the game. Despite making his Test debut in 2010, Unadkat's path to establishing himself as a Test player was not without challenges.
A triumphant performance in the domestic circuit combined with injuries in the national team finally paved the way for his Test comeback. This rekindling of his Test career, although it can be argued it’s still a work in progress, demonstrated his determination to make a mark on the international stage.
Jaydev Unadkat's leadership abilities have also been on display during his tenure as the captain of Saurashtra. Under his guidance, the team clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title in 2020, with Unadkat's remarkable contribution of 67 wickets during the campaign.
This feat underscored his ability to lead by example and inspire his teammates to elevate their game. The subsequent year saw him continue his triumphant journey, leading Saurashtra to their second title and emerging as the Player-of-the-Match in the final against Bengal.
In his announcement, Unadkat expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Sussex squad and contributing to their goals. He acknowledged the team's recent successes and voiced his eagerness to collaborate with his new teammates.
This signing not only adds depth to the Sussex bowling attack but also provides the emerging talents within the squad an invaluable opportunity to learn from a seasoned campaigner like Unadkat.
See you in September, @JUnadkat! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/8GlOLPCTrV
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) August 17, 2023
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Paul Farbrace, the head coach of Sussex, welcomed the addition of Unadkat and highlighted his quality and positive influence on the team. Farbrace's anticipation of Jaydev Unadkat's contribution is well-founded, given the bowler's track record of rising to the occasion during crucial matches.
As the September Championship period approaches, cricket enthusiasts and Sussex supporters are keen to witness Unadkat's impact on the field. His presence is set to bolster the team's bowling prowess and provide strategic insights, which could prove decisive in Sussex's pursuit of promotion.
