Mushtaq Ahmed might still miss the start of Sussex's Championship defence.

The Indian Cricket League, in which Mushtaq is taking part for Lahore Badshahs, are launching another Twenty20 tournament next Wednesday involving players from India, Pakistan and the rest of the world.

It will continue until April 15 - the day before Sussex face Hampshire at the Rose Bowl in their opening four-day fixture.

Coach Mark Robinson still expects Mushtaq to join up with the squad during the warm-up game against MCC at Lord's next Thursday.

The 37-year-old leg-spinner plays for Lahore in the ICL semi-final today and if they win the best-of-three final with the decisive game scheduled for next Wednesday.

Robinson said: "I spoke to Mushtaq on Sunday and as far as I know he will be with us at Lord's next week.

"I wasn't aware of this new tournament and I've heard nothing from Mushy about it since Sunday although I suppose the ICL would be looking to the players there to take part. We will have to see what happens."

Sussex play Gloucestershire at Hove in a two-day friendly starting today (11am).