Luke Wright stands down as Sussex's T20 captain

The 37-year-old spent seven successful years at the helm but is the latest change amid a period of uncertainty at Hove

Sussex have suffered a further blow on the eve of the new season with the news Luke Wright has stepped down as T20 captain.

The 37-year-old, the highest run-scorer in T20 Blast history, spent seven years at the helm as the club consistently reached the knock-out stage.

Sharks were runners-up in 2018 and reached Finals Day in 2021 under the leadership of the former England international, who is gearing up for his 20th summer.

"It has been a huge honour to captain Sussex, the club I love so much, however, I feel it is the right time to step down," said Wright, who is contracted until 2023. "I will continue to give my all to help Sussex as I have over so many years."

Though Sussex's T20 Blast campaign does not get underway until May 26 against Glamorgan, the decision comes just three weeks before the new domestic season begins.

Coupled with the announcement coming in close proximity to the new campaign, the lack of clarification regarding a replacement and the club accepting they are "disappointed" by the request does little to instil confidence in operations behind the scenes, which have come under heavy scrutiny in recent months.

^{One-Day Cup captain Tom Haines (Steve Bardens/ Getty Images)}

The club are also without a permanent red-ball captain after Ben Brown was allowed to leave to join Hampshire. Australian Travis Head was due to take the role but his decision to focus on Test cricket and termination of his overseas contract means the position is vacant.

Tom Haines will captain the club in the Royal London One-Day Cup after taking charge in last season's competition, but it remains to be seen who fills the other roles.

It is the latest episode of turmoil on the south coast, where there has been a flow of talent in the wrong direction in recent years.

A list including Laurie Evans, Danny Briggs, Reece Topley and Luke Wells was added to by Chris Jordan and Phil Salt, who have moved to Surrey and Lancashire respectively, during the winter.

“We respect Luke’s decision to step down as captain and we will work with him to move forward and focus on the future with his successor at the helm," said chief executive Rob Andrew.

“The experience and knowledge he will be able to share with his successor will be invaluable."