The English cricket fraternity has been rocked by the sudden death of Sussex fast bowler Matthew Hobden.

The county club confirmed on Saturday night (Sunday morning AEDT) that the 22-year-old, who played 18 first class games, had died.

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“Sussex Cricket is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Matthew Hobden,” they said in a statement.

“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.

“He made his first-class debut for Sussex in 2014 and had represented the county across all three formats over the past two seasons. He will be greatly missed.”

English players took to social media to pay their tributes to the youngster.

“Devastated to hear the news late last night about Matt! Such a great man & team mate taken far too soon. Gutted. Thoughts with his family,” tweeted Melbourne Stars batsman Luke Wright.

“Very shocked and saddened by the news of Matthew Hobden. Thoughts are with the Hobden family. #RIPMatthew #CricketFamily,” posted Ravi Bopara.

“Thoughts & prayers with all of Matt Hobden’s family at this tragic time. A great guy with a huge future taken far too soon. #riphobsy.” wrote former Sussex and England wicketkeeper Matt Prior.

Hobden took 48 wickets at an average of 39.35 for Sussex and had recently been named in the fast-bowling group for the potential England performance program.

No details of his death have been released.