SUSSEX hope fast bowler James Kirtley will sign an improved contract before the start of the new season.

More talks between the club and Kirtley's agent are due to take place next week about a deal which would keep him at the club until the end of the 2003 season.

Kirtley signed a three-year contract at the start of last season, but Sussex have shown their faith in him by allowing him to re-negotiate a new deal.

Kirtley said: "It's good for me that the club have shown faith in my ability and in return they will hopefully get the three best bowling years of my career.

"There has already been a bit of discussion, but things were held up because of Christmas. The club have been very kind in allowing me to negotiate a new contract and hopefully we can get something out soon."

Chief Executive Dave Gilbert is a big admirer of Kirtley who has taken nearly 200 wickets in the last two seasons and earned a place on England A's tour of New Zealand and Bangladesh a year ago.

And they were strong in their support of Kirtley, who celebrated his 26th birthday on Wednesday, when doubts were expressed about his bowling action in November. He was subsequently cleared by an ECB panel.

"We hope to get around the negotiating table next week," said Gilbert.

"We made him an offer before Christmas and he came back to us with a figure. There is not too much difference between them and I'm sure it's going to happen."

Kirtley will prepare for the new season by spending next month in Namibia where he will play two games for the country in the South African domestic competition.

Kirtley said: "I made a lot of friends over there when I went before and it's a great atmosphere to play and train in. It will be nice to prepare for the new season with the sun on my back."