Former head coach Mark Robinson rejoins Sussex in a part-time director of cricket role following a period of financial restructuring.
Mark Robinson has officially returned to Sussex County Cricket Club as the new director of cricket. The 59-year-old appointment comes after a turbulent period for the county side, which required an emergency financial bailout from the England and Wales Cricket Board.
Robinson brings a wealth of experience to Hove, having previously spent five years playing for the club and a decade serving as head coach. His return aims to stabilize the organization, according to information published by BBC.
The part-time position allows Robinson to balance his new responsibilities with his ongoing role as director of cricket at the Brighton Aldridge Community Academy. Acting chief executive Alex Paterson welcomed the appointment, stating he cannot imagine a better person for the job.
County Championship Success and History at Hove
During his previous tenure as head coach, Robinson led Sussex to immense domestic success. He secured County Championship Division One titles in 2006 and 2007, establishing the team as a dominant force in English cricket.
His trophy cabinet at Hove also includes the Twenty20 Cup in 2009, the Friends Provident Trophy in 2006, and the Pro40 National League titles in 2008 and 2009. Robinson noted that he first joined the club in 1997 during another transitional era.
Financial Challenges and Point Deductions at Sussex
The club enters this new chapter under financial strain after recording a £1.3m trading loss in 2025. Consequently, Sussex required an emergency bailout from the England and Wales Cricket Board to survive the fiscal crisis.
The governing body docked the team 12 Championship points for sustained operating losses, along with an additional point in each white-ball competition. Robinson acknowledged that the club has taken heavy hits recently but remains determined to build a bright future.
Coaching Pedigree Beyond Hove
Before returning to the south coast, Robinson enjoyed notable success elsewhere in English cricket. He guided the England Women national team to a historic 2017 World Cup glory on home soil.
Furthermore, he served as head coach for Warwickshire, where he secured another County Championship Division One title in 2021. This extensive leadership background makes him uniquely qualified to navigate the current hurdles at Hove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new director of cricket at Sussex?
Mark Robinson has returned to Sussex as the new director of cricket in a part-time role, succeeding Paul Farbrace who departed for Lancashire.
Why did Sussex receive a points deduction?
Sussex was docked 12 Championship points and one point in each white-ball competition due to sustained operating losses and a £1.3m trading loss in 2025.
What trophies did Mark Robinson win during his first stint at Sussex?
Robinson led Sussex to County Championship Division One titles in 2006 and 2007, the Twenty20 Cup in 2009, and several other domestic trophies.
