Sussex can boast some of the best practice facilities in the country after their new indoor school at Hove was officially opened yesterday.

President-elect Jim Parks and new skipper Chris Adams cut the ribbon before squad members took part in a full-scale match.

Coach Peter Moores believes the new facility sends out a message that Sussex are determined to establish themselves as one of the country's top counties.

He said: "In our first season in Division One last year it was clear the standard was a lot higher. We're trying to create a culture of professionalism at the club and to make sure the players respond to that we must give them decent facilities.

"We now have excellent indoor facilties and the new outdoor nets are coming along all the time as well. I think it helps send out the message that the club is going somewhere."

The facility, built in the north-west corner of the County Ground on the site of the old squash club, cost £850,000.

Downstairs there are four 16-metre practice lanes and one 22-metre while the area is comfortably big enough to stage indoor matches.

The second floor boasts new players' dressing rooms and balcony, a bar and viewing area. Sussex believe the facility will provide a unique venue for exhibitions and dinners and they are hoping to attract business use.

On the pitch, wicketkeeper Matt Prior will become the 11th Sussex player to winter abroad after securing sponsorship from the Brian Johnson Memorial Trust to help finance a six-week visit to the South African Academy in Cape Town where he will work with experienced former Somerset and Leicestershire gloveman Neil Burns.