Sussex 2026 T20 Blast Cricket Draft Preview
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Overview
After reaching the semi-finals in 2024, Sussex finished last season in sixth place, narrowly missing out on a spot in the quarter-finals. Their late-season form was their downfall, as they suffered four defeats in their final five games, including three in a row. They concluded 2025 with six wins, seven defeats, and one "no result."
The batting unit remains steady, with four of the top five featuring in all 14 matches last year. The addition of Jack Leaning provides extra firepower to a group that already boasts significant depth; finding the right combination will be the key to their success. In the bowling department, the club must fill the void left by leading wicket-taker Nathan McAndrew, who has moved to Glamorgan. Daniel Hughes remains the sole overseas player and will continue to open the batting, while Danny Briggs returns to the club following a spell at Warwickshire. With a strong squad and plenty of depth, Sussex will be looking to return to the knockout phases this summer.
Key Picks: Banker, Wildcard, Young Gun & England Watch
Banker: Tymal Mills (BWL)
Mills is the man tasked with leading the Sussex attack. Renowned for his T20 expertise, he enjoyed a productive 2025 season, claiming 18 wickets at an average of 25.44. Expect him to dominate the death overs and be a consistent wicket-taker again this summer.
Wildcard: Brad Currie (BWL)
Currie only made six appearances last summer but has been in sensational form for Scotland. Since his international debut in 2023, he has collected 32 wickets with an impressive economy of 5.88 and an average of 13.78. Following McAndrew’s departure, Currie will aim to secure a regular starting spot and translate his international form to the county circuit.
Young Gun: George Thomas (BAT)
The 22-year-old made the move from Somerset last year and featured four times toward the end of the Blast. A hard-hitting opener, Thomas will be hungry for more game time, though he faces stiff competition for a place in the XI. Valued at £5.4m, he is a high-potential player who could secure a major role if he forces his way into the side.
England Watch: James Coles (ALR)
Coles has been in incredible form over the winter, firmly putting his name in the hat for England selection. Last season, he took 10 wickets for the Sharks and was their leading run-scorer with 397 runs. That tally included three half-centuries, an average of 33.08, and a blistering strike rate of 158.80. He will be looking to maintain that momentum as the new season begins.
Potential Strongest XI for 2026 T20 Blast
No | Player | Role |
1 | Daniel Hughes | BAT |
2 | Harrison Ward | BAT |
3 | Tom Clark | BAT |
4 | James Coles | ALR |
5 | Tom Alsop | WKT |
6 | John Simpson | WKT |
7 | Fynn Hudson-Prentice | ALR |
8 | Danny Briggs | BWL |
9 | Ollie Robinson | BWL |
10 | Tymal Mills | BWL |
11 | Brad Currie/Jofra Archer | BWL |
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