Sussex fast bowler Matthew Hobden dies aged 22

Sussex fast bowler Matthew Hobden, aged 22, has passed away. The news of his passing was announced late on Saturday evening,by his county club.

The club said in a statement: “Sussex Cricket is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Matthew Hobden. Matthew was an exciting young cricketer with a big future ahead of him in the game. He was a fantastic individual who had progressed through Sussex’s Youth and Academy ranks, having been born locally in Eastbourne.”

Before adding: “Sussex would like to offer their deepest condolences to Matthew’s family and friends at this difficult time. Players and staff will be offered as much support as is possible and we would like both Matthew’s family, and everyone connected with Sussex Cricket, to be respected with privacy at this time.”

Hobden, who was a unique start to his run-up, made his first-class debut in 2012 for Cardiff MCCU. His debut for Sussex came in a one-day match against Nottinghamshire in 2013. The following year he made his first-class Sussex debut for the county.

The fast bowler played in 11 matches for Sussex in the 2015 County Championship Division One, as the county were relegated. He picked up 23 wickets in the process and remained an integral part of the county’s fast bowling attack, along with Ollie Robinson and Steve Magoffin.

Overall, Hobden has played in 18 first-class matches, picking up 48 wickets and also played three List-A where he picked up a solitary wicket. His impressive performances since making his Sussex debut led him to being named in the fast-bowling group for the Potential England Performance Programme late last year.