SUSSEX have confirmed the return of first-class cricket to Hastings.

The county will play the touring Zimbabweans in a one-day match at Horntye Park on Sunday, May 7.

And chief executive Dave Gilbert says the club may consider staging a Championship match there if the game proves to be a success.

"It could definitely be an option if we get a good response," said Gilbert.

"It's going to be a wonderful facility there. The pavilion they are building is magnificent, the actual playing surface is the best in the county and the wicket is magnificent."

Temporary stands will be installed and a capacity of around 4-5,000 is likely.

Sussex haven't played in Hastings since the old Central Ground was demolished ten years ago to make way for a shopping complex.

Meanwhile overseas star Michael Bevan will definitely miss the opening two games of the season.

The Australian Cricket Board have confirmed that they are taking part in a limited overs tournament in South Africa in early April and Bevan isn't likely to fly to England until the 17th which would mean he missed the Benson and Hedges Cup ties against Kent and Hampshire.

He could also be required for an indoor tournament in Melbourne between August 16-20, ruling him out of AXA League games against Worcestershire and Northants and the Championship match against Northants.

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