Batter Tom Alsop has secured a move to Gloucestershire, signing a three-year deal with the club. The transition follows a period of uncertainty for the player at Sussex, where financial restrictions necessitated his departure. Alsop’s exit from Hove follows the departures of fast bowler Henry Crocombe and allrounder Fynn Hudson-Prentice.
Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace confirmed that the club's financial situation made it necessary for Alsop to move on, while expressing gratitude for his service on and off the field. Reflecting on his departure, Alsop noted that despite exploring various possibilities, he made the difficult decision with a heavy heart due to the uncertain future at Sussex. He added that he intends to remain a resident of Hove in the long term.
Looking forward to his new chapter, Alsop expressed excitement about joining Gloucestershire, highlighting the clear vision presented by Jon Lewis. He also noted that the move allows him to be closer to his home in Wiltshire. Having originally come through the system at Hampshire before joining Sussex on loan in 2022, Alsop brings significant experience to his new side. He holds an average of 37.59 in first-class cricket for Sussex, including a career-best 182 not out against Leicestershire. While he was a regular in the T20 Blast, his County Championship appearances were limited to two matches this season.
Jon Lewis, the director of cricket at Gloucestershire, praised Alsop as a fantastic batter capable of performing across all formats. Lewis emphasized that Alsop’s experience in both the domestic game and franchise cricket, including stints with Trent Rockets, the Big Bash League, and the ILT20, makes him a valuable addition. He further noted that the player's resilience in the County Championship and his strong ties to the West Country will be beneficial to the squad’s development in Bristol.
He was an ever-present in Sussex's T20 Blast campaign, although couldn't prevent them finishing bottom of the South Group, and is currently in action for Sunrisers Leeds in the Hundred. Alsop has also played for Trent Rockets and has overseas experience in the Big Bash League and ILT20.
