Chris Nash opened his new season with a century for Sussex today.

But Essex’s SEVENTH bowler temporarily interrupted the hosts’ serene progress on the first day of the Championship contest at Hove.

Sussex were 248-3 at tea, with Nash having made 119 and Ed Joyce, who was dropped on three, adding 61.

Nash and Joyce shared an opening stand worth 188 before both were dismissed by Ryan ten Doeschate, the seventh bowler used by Essex today, in the space of three deliveries in his first over.

Joyce was caught behind by James Foster for 63 and then, after new batsman Matt Machan had scored three from the next ball, the Dutchman earnt a leg-before decision against Nash, who did not seem to be in total agreement.

Nash, recovered from a foot injury which ruled him out of pre-season and the opening Championship fixture at Northampton, faced 144 balls, hit 21 fours and looked untroubled untul ten Doeschate struck.

Ross Taylor’s first Championship innings for Sussex brought him just 12 before he offered a simple chance to Foster via the inside edge off Graham Napier.

But Sussex will be delighted with their progress on a good batting pitch and under blue skies after winning the toss.

Machan had reached 35 and Luke Wells was on nine at tea.