Sussex cricket chief executive Tony Pigott dies at 67, leaving behind a legacy of success on and off the pitch.
The former Sussex seam bowler and CEO passed away aged 67, having spent nearly two decades at the helm of the county ground. Born into cricket, Pigott began his career with Sussex as a teenager, making an impressive debut in 1978 where he took three wickets with his first three balls. This was just one example of his talent, which saw him go on to claim over 1,000 wickets in both first-class and List A cricket.
A pivotal moment in Pigott's career came when England needed him at short notice as injury cover before a Test match against New Zealand in 1984. To prioritize his wedding, Pigott postponed the event to play for his country, showcasing his dedication to his team and country.
In 1998, he led Sussex through significant change after joining from Surrey two years earlier, when a takeover of the board was undertaken. Under Pigott's leadership, Hove became the first cricket ground in the UK to install floodlights, transforming its facilities. One notable example of his success during this time was recruiting Chris Adams as captain in 1998.
Although he stepped down as CEO after a few years, Adams left an enduring impression on him, saying that Pigott played a "transformative influence" and helped lay the groundwork for Sussex's first County Championship title in 2003. The 2003 season is also dedicated to Pigott by Adams, who praised his character and impact on his career.
Pigott's legacy extends beyond cricket; he became an integral part of the club through leadership, vision, and unwavering support. His untimely passing leaves a void in Sussex cricket, but the lasting contributions he made will be cherished forever.
The former Sussex seam bowler and CEO passed away aged 67, having spent nearly two decades at the helm of the county ground. Born into cricket, Pigott began his career with Sussex as a teenager, making an impressive debut in 1978 where he took three wickets with his first three balls. This was just one example of his talent, which saw him go on to claim over 1,000 wickets in both first-class and List A cricket.
A pivotal moment in Pigott's career came when England needed him at short notice as injury cover before a Test match against New Zealand in 1984. To prioritize his wedding, Pigott postponed the event to play for his country, showcasing his dedication to his team and country.
In 1998, he led Sussex through significant change after joining from Surrey two years earlier, when a takeover of the board was undertaken. Under Pigott's leadership, Hove became the first cricket ground in the UK to install floodlights, transforming its facilities. One notable example of his success during this time was recruiting Chris Adams as captain in 1998.
Although he stepped down as CEO after a few years, Adams left an enduring impression on him, saying that Pigott played a "transformative influence" and helped lay the groundwork for Sussex's first County Championship title in 2003. The 2003 season is also dedicated to Pigott by Adams, who praised his character and impact on his career.
Pigott's legacy extends beyond cricket; he became an integral part of the club through leadership, vision, and unwavering support. His untimely passing leaves a void in Sussex cricket, but the lasting contributions he made will be cherished forever.
just heard about Tony Pigott, what a legend on & off the pitch! I mean, 1k wickets is insane 
and his leadership skills are still giving us goals (pun intended, cricket fan here 
). I love how he showed dedication to his team by postponing his wedding for England duties in '84. That's some serious commitment 
. The way he transformed Hove ground into a top-notch facility with floodlights is so impressive 
. And that's not all, he had a lasting impact on Chris Adams' career too 
. He may be gone but his legacy lives on and we'll definitely miss him in Sussex cricket 
. That time he postponed his wedding for England was so inspiring 
, like that first floodlight installation at Hove 
️. Adams' praise for Pigott's character and impact on cricket is spot on 
. He'll be remembered as a true legend of Sussex cricket 
.
that's insane! and omg who postpones their wedding for cricket 
that must've meant everything to him! he was defo a trailblazer for sussex cricket and his legacy will live on forever 
He was more than just a cricket legend to me... I mean, have you seen his skills on the pitch back in the 70s and 80s? 
3 wickets with his first three balls, mind blown! 
But what's even more inspiring is how he balanced his passion for cricket with his personal life. Putting his wedding plans on hold to play for England is a testament to his dedication to his team and country. 
. I'm sad to see him go, but his legacy will live on through the people he inspired. Sussex cricket will miss him big time 
1000 wickets is no joke!! and did u know he postponed his own wedding to play for england? 