Matt Prior is ready to fulfil a behind-the-scenes pledge to his Sussex team-mates and help power them to a long-awaited cup final.

The highly-rated wicketkeeper/batsman will be one of Sussex's key players when the county play Hampshire at Hove on Friday knowing victory will see them into the C&G Trophy final.

Prior is averaging just 12.14 in the group stages so far, with a top score of 43 off 38 balls in the rain-affected win over Somerset.

He is desperate to put that right in a bid to help Sussex to a major final for the first time since 1993.

Prior joked: "I keep saying to the guys 'I'm waiting for the big games'.

"But I'm definitely due a score. It's disappointing not to get the runs but also frustrating when you feel in good nick and don't get any really big scores.

"I take confidence from that game against Somerset. It was nice to keep us in the game. Friday is going to be a big game and I'll be looking to contribute large."

Prior appeared for Chris Adams' PCA Masters XI against Sri Lanka at Arundel yesterday and joins Sussex at Eastbourne today (5.00) as they face Lashings for James Kirtley's benefit.

The Sussex keeper admits a low-key week has been given an extra edge by the prospect of playing in front of a near full-house on Friday.

He said: "This is supposed to be a bit of a window to have a few days' rest but already the guys are looking forward to the game.

"You can't help but think about it, especially if you get this close. We all know the situation. If we win on Friday, we're going to go to Lord's which is huge for all the players.

"We've been speaking a lot about how it's easy to be relaxed and stay calm and have a nice fun atmosphere in the changing room when there's not a lot at stake.

"Come Friday, can we keep the same attitude and same mood? I don't think we'll struggle to do that."

Sussex expect to hear tomorrow whether new signing Yasir Arafat has clearance for the game. He joins the squad at the Saffrons today.

Hampshire limbered up by playing the Southern League champions Bourenmouth in an annual challenge yesterday.