Wright appointed as Sussex captain

Luke Wright has been named as Sussex's captain across all three formats for the 2016 season, following Ed Joyce's decision to stand down in the wake of the club's relegation from Division One of the LV= County Championship.

Wright, 30, took charge of Sussex's T20 fortunes last season, leading his side to the quarter-finals of the NatWest T20 Blast. However, it was in first-class cricket that he made his biggest impression, scoring 1,220 runs at 46.92, including a career-best 226 not out against Worcestershire.

"I am hugely proud and honoured to be the captain of this fantastic club," Wright said. "To think that I am following in the footsteps of some great captains is a massive privilege.

"Mine and the coaches' challenge is to get this club back to winning ways. This starts with not only trying to get back to Division One, but to create a culture that can challenge to win it."

Sussex's Championship campaign was undermined by a spate of injuries, particularly to their stable of fast bowlers, with Tymal Mills, Ajmal Shahzad and Chris Jordan all ruled out at various stages of the season. Michael Yardy, the former club captain, retired at the end of the season while Joyce stood down to concentrate on his batting after averaging 32.88 for the campaign.

"Thanks to all the Sussex supporters for sticking with us through what has been a difficult summer but hopefully good times are ahead," Wright said.

"We also need to be successful in all forms and I was delighted with the improvements we made this season in the T20 competition, but a lot of hard work is required by all to achieve these goals."

Mark Robinson, Sussex's team manager, said: "We're delighted that Luke has accepted the offer of captaincy. It comes at an important time for the club, as we look to rebuild and come back stronger for the 2016 season.

"Luke will bring a lot of experience from around the world, as well as passion, commitment and energy. He will have the full respect from everybody from within the club and the game."