Orr, 22, has been part of the Sussex line-up since he was 10, and enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2022 when he made more than 1,500 runs in first-class and List A cricket combined, including three centuries. of the tournament and a career-best 206 off 161 balls against Somerset at Taunton in the One Day Cup.
However, his opportunities were limited in 2023, partly due to a knee injury and subsequent finger dislocation, and with Sussex missing out on promotion to the County Championship as well as being knocked out in both limited-overs tournaments, he was selected to move on.
“I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to play for Hampshire, it is a club I have always followed closely,” Orr said. “I hope I can contribute to the club’s success moving forward and I can’t wait to get started.”
Hampshire competed for silverware across formats in 2023, reaching a T20 finals day for the 10th time before losing the One-Day Cup final by two runs to Leicestershire. The club also finished third in the County Championship after memorable victories over both title contenders, Essex and champions Surrey, in their last two matches.
Giles White, Hampshire Director of Cricket, added: “Ali has had an encouraging start to his career, has a strong desire to win and I believe he is a perfect fit for our team.
“During our discussions he impressed me with his determination to challenge himself and improve. He has stepped out of his comfort zone to join us and we are all looking forward to welcoming him to Hampshire.”
Orr is the latest high-profile player to move from Hove, following George Garton’s recent decision to leave his boyhood club and link up with his former Sussex coach Mark Robinson at Warwickshire.
A club statement said: “Sussex Cricket have agreed to terminate Orr’s contract until he makes the move and he will receive compensation from Hampshire for the switch.”
“Orr had one year remaining on his contract and was seeking to renegotiate terms with the club, but with that not possible, he indicated his intention to move elsewhere.
“Everyone at Sussex Cricket would like to wish Ali all the best in his career.”
