Sussex star eyes silverware after agreeing long-term new deal

Tom Haines has set his sights on more silverware after pledging himself to Sussex for at least three more years.

The opening bat has agreed a contract extension taking him through until at least the end of 2027.

He is part of a squad who will prepare for top-flight Championship cricket next season after winning the second division title.

Haines has progressed with Sussex through some tough seasons and flourished as they came good under captain John Simpson.

He was being talked about in terms of England honours three years ago and now gets the chance to re-assert those claims in the top tier.

Haines said: “I’m really pleased to have signed a new contract. It was great to be scoring runs last year and helping the team win division two.

"The club is going in a good direction and I am looking forward to the next few seasons which can hopefully bring some more silverware.”

Crawley-born Haines, 26, played for Sussex almost throughout their second division stint, having made his debut in 2016, and will relish the chance to test himself at the higher level.

He averaged 40.95 in the Championship last season, including three centuries and two half-centuries.

Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace said: “He epitomised everything good about the improvement the team has made over the last two seasons.

“He is a top-class player who has a huge influence in the group and has really driven the standards.

“Not only is he an excellent opening batter but his catching at slip has been outstanding.

“I’m really looking forward to watching Tom continue to set the tone in division one.”