Jofra Archer has urged Sussex to make their own history - as the county revealed another big-name signing.

Indian pace bowler Ishant Sharma is on board for the first two months of the season, when Archer and Chris Jordan will play in the Indian Premier League.

The 29-year-old right-armer will attune to English conditions ahead of India’s tour by playing five Specsavers County Championship fixtures and all eight Royal London One-Day Cup group matches.

Archer hopes Sharma gets the county off to a flyer as he targets promotion plus white-ball success.

He wants Sussex to hit the heights they enjoyed when players such as Chris Adams, Mushtaq Ahmed and James Kirtley played leading roles.

Archer told The Argus: “I’m a bit tired of hearing about back in the times when Mushy was here.

“I think that era is done and we need to make our own history from now.

“We always get compared to them, as soon as we don’t do well.

“Lots of people on social media bring up the past.”

Sharma’s arrival follows the recent hiring of Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan for the Natwest T20 Blast.

Sussex continue to hunt for a batsman to replace Chris Nash.

But early-season cover for Archer and Jordan was also seen as key.

Sharma has played 81 tests, 80 one-day internationals and 14 T20 internationals.

Sussex director of cricket Keith Greenfield said: “Once Jofra and CJ were picked up in the IPL draft, it became crucial to sign an experienced international-quality seam bowler who could provide valuable support and know-how to the rest of the seamers.

“Ishant has the attributes to be very successful in early season English conditions and a great role model. He fits the bill perfectly.”

Sussex have started the hunt for an academy director to replace Carl Hopkinson, who is set to become the ECB’s new fielding guru.

The county are looking for a suitably qualified former first-class or international player with a successful track record in first-class coaching and developing young talent.