Adam Wheater went on the attack as Hampshire began to build a first innings lead on the second morning of their Championship clash with Sussex at Hove.

Wheater raced to 64 not out after Sussex had picked up three wickets to guide Hampshire to 264-7 at lunch – a lead of 13.

The wicketkeeper took a particular fancy to part-time leg-spinner Luke Wells who he launched for six down the ground after bringing up his half century from just 37 balls.

He found good support from Gareth Berg (33 not out) as the pair put on an unbroken stand of 67 for the eighth wicket.

Sussex had harboured hopes of bowling Hampshire out for less than their first innings total of 251 with the visitors resuming on 116-4 in the morning.

Ollie Robinson picked up his third wicket when he had nightwatchman Danny Briggs caught behind attempting an upper cut for 12.

Matt Hobden then got rid of the dangerous James Vince for 76 – caught at first slip by Ed Joyce – and followed it up by trapping Sean Ervine lbw for 15.