Eight of Sussex's top players are dropping down into the Second XI in a bid to find some early season form.

Openers Toby Peirce and Richard Montgomerie, middle order batsman Will House and Tony Cottey, wicketkeeper Nick Wilton and bowlers Umer Rashid, Jason Lewry and Mark Robinson are all expected to face Yorkshire second in a three-day game at Horsham, starting tomorrow.

All eight were in the team for last week's drawn Championship match Gloucestershire when only 40 overs were possible because of rain. Coach Peter Moores said: "We have had quite a lot of one-day cricket so far but because of the weather the batsmen have had very little time in the middle.

"The bowlers also need the opportunity to have a good long bowl. This isn't a punishment - all the guys who are playing have asked to do so. This is a chance for some of our guys to settle into some form."

Shaun Humphries may also play, providing he has recovered from the thumb injury which has kept him out since the start of the season. Moores added: "It will be a good test for us. Paul Hutchison and Ryan Sidebottom have been bowling in Yorkshire's seconds this season."

The Sussex Board XI, coached by the county's academy director Chris Waller play Herefordshire in the first round of the NatWest Trophy today. The winners will be at home to Berkshire on May 16.