Tom Alsop will leave Sussex CCC to join Gloucestershire at the end of the season – the latest in a series of stars to move as the county get to grips with financial problems.

Alsop follows the likes of Henry Crocombe and Fynn Hudson-Prentice in confirming moves away from Hove at the end of the season.

It comes after major financial mismanagement in recent years led to ECB intervention and points deductions which have hit this season’s campaign.

Initially joining the club on loan from Hampshire in 2022 ahead of a permanent move the following year, Alsop has played an integral role in both red ball and white ball cricket, helping to secure Sussex's promotion from Division Two in the same year as reaching T20 Blast Finals Day.

John Simpson celebrates with Tom Alsop after catching Nick Gubbins during the Sussex-Hampshire game last month (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

placeholder image — John Simpson celebrates with Tom Alsop after catching Nick Gubbins during the Sussex-Hampshire game last month (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

In his first season at the club, Alsop recorded 930 County Championship runs that included four centuries, as well as notching a then First Class career-best of 150. The year following, he went one better, beating his previous career-best against the same opponent in Leicestershire, making 182* at Grace Road.

The 154th Sussex cricketer to receive his County Cap - presented by Ian Gould in 2023 on the same day as Steve Smith - the now 30-year old will head west to Gloucestershire at the end of the season after a five-year stay in Sussex.

Head coach Paul Farbrace said: "I would like to thank Tommy [Alsop] for his great service to Sussex, on and off the field. Tommy is a high-quality player and has shown that on many occasions in all forms. It is with sadness that our financial situation has made it necessary for Tommy to move on.

"Tommy has been a fantastic support and role model to the [Sussex Cricket] Foundation, getting involved with coaching and supporting players throughout the Foundation and, in particular, the disability team. He goes with our very best wishes and is always welcome at Hove."

Alsop said: “Despite exploring possibilities it’s with a heavy heart that I’ve made this decision, knowing that the picture is uncertain over my future here with the club’s financial position.

"I’ve loved playing for Sussex. I aim to remain a Hove resident long-term. However, I’ve got to think about my family and what’s best going forward with an offer from Gloucestershire CCC and as professional cricketer at my stage security is very important. I can’t thank everyone enough to those who have made my time so enjoyable here at Hove”

Sussex said: “We wish Tom all the very best in his future career following his departure at the end of the current campaign.”