Sussex on level playing field in the sun at Hove

Australian lead by 56 runs with 10 wickets remaining

Australia declared overnight to allow themselves plenty of time in the second innings to bat, but Sussex did not look outclassed in the slightest by the world beaters.

Skipper Mike Yardy and Chris Nash opened the innings for the home side in front of another packed County Ground.

Hilfenhaus struck early, when a dubious LBW decision claimed the wicket of the in form Yardy for 5. Joyce (15) and Hopkinson (8) both fell relatively cheaply to leave the hosts on 50 for 3.

However, Chris Nash and Rory Hamilton-Brown went about rebuilding the Sussex innings in the soaring heat and the pair put on 59 before Nash was caught in the slips off the bowling of Clark. The aggression towards the bowlers gave the Sussex batsman confidence and there was no let up for Nathan Hauritz who went for 98 off his 18 overs, with no breakthrough.

Luke Wright also batted with aggression and played Brett Lee with ease until he flashed at a short one and was caught in the slips for 22.

Hamilton-Brown soon fell to Lee for 37 as the pace man picked up 3 for 52 in the day.

Hodd and Hamilton-Brown again went about rebuilding the Sussex innings and put on 86 for the seventh wicket. Martin-Jenkins was caught behind off the bowling of Clark, who picked up 3 for 46 in the day.

Hodd was soon to go, caught in the slips off the ever impressive bowling of Clark, but the tail kept wagging as Rayner made 28, James Kirtley made 11 and Will Beer, with some exquisite shots, finished 28 not out.

Sussex will be back at Hove fighting tomorrow morning, as they look to cause a huge upset in front of a full house.