Mushtaq Ahmed praised the Sussex bowlers as the county fought back in their Championship clash with title favourites Lancashire.

The leg spinner took 4-88 and fellow Pakistani Mohammad Akram celebrated his home debut with 3-79 as Sussex bowled out their opponents for 335 on the second day at Hove.

It still gave Lancashire a first innings lead of 140, but Sussex would have been in an even better position had it not been for an unbeaten 171 by Stuart Law, his fourth hundred in seven innings against the county.

By the close Sussex had reached 51-0, still 89 behind.

Mushtaq said: "It was a great team effort, all the boys bowled brilliantly.

"At one stage it looked as if they would get a good lead but the way we came back will send out a message to the opposition that we are strong characters who don't give up."

Mushtaq was full of praise for Law who now averages 212 in seven innings for Lancashire against Sussex.

"He's one of the best cricketers around," said Mushtaq. "When the wicket is flat if you don't get him early it is hard work because he doesn't give you a chance."