Sussex all-rounder Robin Martin-Jenkins is reaping the rewards for a more composed approach to his batting, according to his coach Peter Moores.

Martin-Jenkins made an unbeaten 66 against Nottinghamshire yesterday - his highest score for two years - as Sussex made 379 on the second day of the Championship match at Trent Bridge.

Moores said: "Robin is batting with a new calmness and composure this season and hopefully because of that he will get runs on a more consistent basis."

Martin-Jenkins averaged just 19.27 last season and with Luke Wright providing genuine competition for the pivotal all-rounder's slot he is under pressure to perform with the bat.

"Robin's method is a bit more simple this season," added Moores. "He got 40 against Surrey in the first game which showed the improvements he has made."

New signing Johan van der Wath had five overs in Nott-inghamshire's reply and was unlucky not to take a wicket as the hosts reached 32-0.

"I thought Johan did well," said Moores. "He bowled at a lively pace and showed plenty of aggression."

April 29, 2005