In-form Bevan eyes B & H Cup quarter-final clash

Record breaker Michael Bevan says Sussex shouldn't fear anyone after guiding them to the quarter-finals of the Benson & Hedges Cup for the first time in seven years.

The Australian left-hander scored a brilliant undefeated 157 as Sussex beat Essex by 62 runs at Chelmsford to ensure they finished top of the South group and secured a home tie against Gloucestershire in the last eight on May 9.

Skipper Chris Adams made 122 as the pair put on 271 in a massive total of 316-3, Sussex's highest in the competition's 29-year history.

Bevan, whose unbeaten 65 had guided Sussex to victory over Hampshire on Sunday, said: "I'd like to think that we are a match for anyone in one-day cricket.It's just a case of the guys performing to the best of their ability in each game.

"I wasn't aware that our record in the competition wasn't too good so it's nice to have improved it."

Bevan praised the contribution of Adams after the pair had put on a competition record 271 for the third wicket in 41 overs.

"Chris is more of a shot maker than me, but I think we gel together quite well. I enjoy batting with him.

"I was happy with the way I hit the ball. It was a good wicket to drive on and the longer I stayed out there the better I felt and the better I timed the ball.

Will House took 4-41 in his first bowl for his new county as Essex closed on 254-8.

Hampshire's beat Surrey in a rain reduced match at the Oval, but both counties also qualified for the quarter-finals.

Sussex will be looking to avenge defeat by Gloucestershire in last season's Super Cup semi-final and coach Peter Moores welcomed the draw.

"They are a good one-day unit but we weren't really bothered who we got. If we perform we back ourselves to beat anyone, especially at home."

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