Sussex could face a trek to Durham in their quest for County Plate glory.

They certainly will not be going to Twickenham after the county event came off second best in a double booking - and they might not be going anywhere if they lose away to Dorset and Wiltshire tomorrow.

The county are likely to finish as best runners-up in the three qualifying groups if they win at Swanage.

This year's Plate set-up means second place behind Hampshire, who face Buckinghamshire, could send them to Durham for the semis. There is a chance that, if they get through, the final could be at home.

Usually the county finals take place at Twickenham but the stadium is not available this year because England are hosting the Churchill Cup.

The combined might of the RFU's Second Tier Implementation Task Group and the chairman of the management board put their heads together to reach an alternative arrangements.

Sussex manager Mel Cook admits the fact there is no Twickenham will not have dawned on some players.

He said: "It would be disappointing to get through and realise you're not going to Twickenham after all but we will take it one game at a time. Hopefully we'll be on the bus back from Swanage having won and then we can think about the next stage."

Sussex need to reach the final to return to the second-tier County Shield, from which they were relegated last year.

Skipper Terry Butler is unavailable tomorrow so flanker Simon Gaynor leads the side out. Gaynor's is not a name which will be recognisable to many followers of Sussex rugby. He hails from Pulborough, made a big impact in his first year with Esher and has impressed Sussex with his leadership qualities.

Cook said: "In Sussex terms, he is in the Damien Lyall mould physically. He has got a good rugby brain, is as fit as they come and strong as an ox."