Sussex's strength in depth is going to be tested as their bid for a first ever Championship gathers momentum.

The county closed the gap on first division leaders Surrey to five points on Friday after a five-wicket success over Leicestershire earned them a fourth successive Championship win and sixth of the season.

They may be without their first choice new ball attack when they resume their title bid at Trent Bridge against Nottinghamshire next Friday.

James Kirtley could be making his belated Test debut after being named in the England 12 for the first Test against South Africa while Jason Lewry is a doubt because of the rib injury he suffered in the first innings at Grace Road.

Skipper Chris Adams said: "If everyone stays fit and we have the rub of the green we are going to give Surrey a run for their money, whatever happens from now on in.

"But we need to get Jason fit because he is bowling beautifully at the moment and we could lose James to the Test team which would be no more than he deserves but obviously a big loss to our side.

"Surrey don't have that problem because they have such strength in depth which is why I would still say they were favourites.

"Our resolve is going to be tested over the next few weeks and guys who have been on the fringes may have to come in and perform."

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