Chief executive Dave Gilbert is to be part of Sussex's selection panel this season.

Gilbert will help pick the team alongside coach Peter Moores and skipper Chris Adams, although Adams will have the final say.

The decision to widen Gilbert's remit at Hove comes after a lengthy inquest into the disappointing 2000 season when the county finished bottom of the Championship and were relegated in the National League.

Gilbert said: "I think it's a good move to have someone who is a little bit detached from the dressing room being involved.

"I know from experience how the dressing room can be a closeted place so offering a fresh perspective on our players can only help."

Sussex are keen to make more use of Gilbert's vast experience as a player and coach. He played eight Tests for Australia in the 1980s and successfully coached Surrey before joining the county in 1998 in a purely administrative role.

"Without wishing to blow my own trumpet, I have got playing and coaching experience and feel I can bring something different to the selection process.

"I'm planning to go to more away matches this season and I'll still see plenty of second XI cricket at home. It should help some of our youngsters to know that there is someone as well as Keith Greenfield who is monitoring their progress and promoting their cause if they start doing the business.

"But the ultimate decision on the team rests with Chris, he has got to be happy with the side he takes onto the field."

Meanwhile Sussex will play Middlesex in a floodlit friendly as part of their annual open day.

It takes place at Hove on Good Friday, April 13, with gates opening at 1pm. The match starts at 3pm.