Matthew Prior rediscovered his form with the bat by smashing a superb 151 against Bradford and Leeds University Centre of Cricket Excellence.

That helped Sussex rattle up 400-9 declared in the three-day friendly.

The 20-year-old wicketkeeper, who totalled only 47 from his first four championship innings, pulled his side round at Hastings by sharing in a six wicket stand of 181 with trialist Kevin Innes (53).

The visitors lost Howard Anderson to the first ball of their innings from Jason Lewry before closing on 26-1.

Right arm medium-pacer Richard Noach, who finished with 5-85 from 15 overs, inflicted the early damage before Prior took centre stage in two hours 20 minutes at the crease.

He powered 24 fours and a six off only 121 deliveries on a flat pitch and fell immediately after changing his bat upon reaching his 150 when caught at slip off Jamie McClean.

Former Northamptonshire all-rounder Innes, who has already struck a century for the Second XI, enjoyed himself in striking five fours from 73 balls before being bowled by Noach.

Sussex, who won the toss, fought back strongly after losing half their side for only 103 and Noach picked up four quick wickets after Dominic Clapp fell for only eight.

Noach bowled both Bas Zuiderent (41) and Jamie Carpenter (21) while Krishna Singh went for a duck and Will House made 12.

Carl Hopkinson and Lewry ensured the innings ended with a flourish after Prior was seventh out and Lewry finished unbeaten on 42 as Sussex called a halt 50 minutes from the close.

Lewry then struck an immediate blow by pinning Anderson in front. Jason Payn and James Lucas survived through to stumps.