India’s left-arm seamer Jaydev Unadkat is set to make a return to Sussex County Cricket Club for the last five matches of their 2024 County Championship campaign, and he is looking forward to some red-ball game time.

Unadkat, who last played for Team India in a Test match against the West Indies in Trinidad in July 2023, had joined Sussex towards the end of their first-class season last year.

During that stint, he made notable contributions in three out of the final four County Championship games, showcasing his skill by claiming a total of 11 wickets at an impressive average of 24.18.

The 32-year-old bowler’s valuable performances played a significant role in Sussex securing a commendable third-place finish in Division Two of the County Championship.

One of Unadkat's standout displays came in his county debut match at Hove against Leicestershire. Despite battling through an ankle injury, he delivered a remarkable performance, finishing with figures of 6 for 94 in the second inning to help Sussex win the game by 15 runs.

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Jaydev Unadkat said in a statement: “It was at Hove last season when we won a last-day thriller against Leicestershire, that gave me a sense of belongingness to county cricket, and Sussex as my home. When Farby [head coach, Paul Farbrace] offered me a contract this season for the last leg of the championship, I was sure I wanted to come back and hopefully win games with the guys.”

The Saurashtra pacer added, “While my first county season was good, I can't wait to be back and push for that promotion this summer which everyone at Hove is rooting for!”

Meanwhile, Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace said: “We are all delighted that Jaydev is returning to The 1st Central County Ground for the final five Championship matches of the coming season.”

He signed off by saying, “Jaydev lived up to the expectation that not only would he show his class on the field, but he would also be a fantastic person and be part of what we are all trying to achieve. Jaydev is a lovely guy who did everything he could to help our players and share his fantastic knowledge.”

(With PTI Inputs)