Australia have confirmed they will play Sussex at Hove as part of their preparations for the Ashes series in 2013.

The Australians will play a three day match at the PROBIZ County Ground between Friday July 26 and Sunday July 28.

It will be the third time in their last four Ashes tours that Australia have opted to play a warm up game at Hove, the last being in 2009 when Carl Hopkinson scored a century in an exciting draw in front of a packed house.

Sussex’s chief executive Dave Brooks said: "We are delighted to welcome Australia back to our new look PROBIZ County Ground for a fantastic weekend of cricket which will form the highlight of the season for many of our supporters.

"Watching Australia at Hove gives spectators the chance to get so much closer than they can at a major Test venue and offers a unique experience for them, and also for the players as well."