Sussex are now safe from relegation after their match against Gloucestershire at Bristol was abandoned as a draw.

Just 33 overs were possible on the final day during which Gloucestershire added 99 to their overnight 205-4 for the loss of just one wicket before a torrential downpour at 2.20pm brought an end to the action.

Sussex picked up seven points to move to 167 and although Lancashire can equal that mark they have won two fewer games which is the method of determining league positions if teams are level on points.

Worcestershire are down with Northamptonshire after their game with Lancashire at New Road ended in a draw. Lancashire will also be relegated unless they beat Gloucestershire at Old Trafford and also take three bonus points.

Alex Gidman holed out to long on just before the terminal downpour after making 82 in a stand of 162 with Tim Hancock.

Mushtaq Ahmed bowled for 13 overs unchanged into a howling gale before sheltering in the deep to try and get some feeling back into his fingers and it was a relief when a heavy storm swept over the ground.