Sussex bolster forces for 2020 season, sign Travis Head for all three formats

Travis Head, who had a forgettable summer in England, missing out on the World Cup and struggling in the Ashes, has been picked up by Sussex after being convinced of the cricketer’s potential by former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie. Gillespie is also the head coach of the BBL franchise Adelaide Strikers, which features Head as a player.

"I've known Trav for a number of years. We have a really good relationship and after we decided here at Sussex that an overseas batsman would complement our squad next year I just knew that Travis would be ideal," Gillespie was quoted as saying Cricbuzz.

Head, besides being a world-class batsman, has also exhibited good leadership qualities throughout his domestic career. Under his leadership, the Adelaide Strikers had won their maiden BBL title in the 2017-18 season. The Sussex team management would be hoping for Head to contribute towards the team as a senior player.

"We wanted a top-four batsman to improve our team and Travis will do that," head coach Gillespie said. "He's shown his class in his international career so far, he brings some useful off-spin and he will offer good leadership support to our captains from his time leading South Australia and the Strikers."

Head had signed a similar deal in 2019 with Sussex, however, he was unable to play for the team due to his Ashes call-up, as a result of which he was let go and replaced by another Australian in the form of Alex Carey.   

"I was disappointed not to have been able to take up my contract this summer so was thrilled that Jason and Keith [Greenfield, Sussex Cricket's director of cricket] were keen to lock me away for the 2020 season. I can't wait," Head said. "With such a proud history, success is expected, and I want to play my part in achieving that."