Matt Walker has been appointed as Sussex's new head coach, succeeding Paul Farbrace. Walker expressed enthusiasm about joining the club he has "always admired" and building on the "strong foundation" to compete for trophies. Farbrace praised Walker's "experience, energy and enthusiasm" and looks forward to working alongside him.

Sussex returned to Division One as champions in 2024 under Farbrace, finishing fourth in 2025. However, the club received a 12-point deduction for the 2026 season due to "sustained operating losses." Walker and new chairman Ed Warner must navigate tight financial restrictions, including a player salary cap until 2028, a required three-year business plan for the ECB, and sustainable year-on-year operating profits.

The club faces player departures, with young fast bowler Henry Crocombe joining Surrey in 2027, and John Simpson, Tom Clark, Fynn Hudson-Prentice, Danny Lamb, and Charlie Tear all out of contract. Interim CEO Mark West stated Walker's appointment is a key step in strengthening the club on and off the field.