Tony Cottey's outstanding form this season seems likely to earn him an extension to his Sussex contract.

The five-year deal the 37-year-old signed when he moved to the county from Glamorgan in 1999 expires at the end of the season.

But skipper Chris Adams has hinted that it will be extended, possibly for more than one season.

Cottey reeled off scores of 52, 188, 107 and 98 in four innings and topped the averages with 658 runs at 54.83 going into the current match against Leicestershire, which he has begun with another ton.

Cottey's form has given Adams particular pleasure. The captain admits he went out on a limb to sign the Welshman whom he believes is now producing his best form for Sussex.

"I brought Cotts to the club, he was my import if you like, and I've had to stick my neck out for him when he has gone through some tough times," said Adams.

"Members were calling for his place and he has been through the mill a bit but he is still a quality player. You don't score over 13,000 runs in county cricket for nothing and I still think he can get even better.

"He's in the form of his life and he is an integral part of our XI at the moment.

"I think he should be here next season and maybe a year or two after that, we'll have to see at the end of the season."

Cottey's superb form may have something to do with the relaxed way he is approaching his cricket in what could be the final year of a career which started back in 1986.

"Last year I changed my technique a bit, but I'm not doing a lot different," he revealed. "I haven't set myself any goals, I just take every day as it comes and try to enjoy it as much as possible. It's just nice to be part of a side which is challenging."