Sussex will tell the England and Wales Cricket Board that the Pro40 competition should not be sacrificed when the structure for 2010 is debated again next week.

Among the options being considered are a 40-over competition comprising two 20 overs innings with 50 overs cricket likely to be sacrificed to enable the Twenty20 Cup to be expanded, a proposal supported by Sussex.

But 40-over cricket has always been popular with Sussex crowds and another big turnout is expected next Friday when the Sharks continue the defence of their title at home to Durham Dynamos.

Chairman Jim May said: “We appreciate that one-day internationals are currently 50 overs but feel that players can refine their skills in 40 overs.

“Additionally 40 overs works much better on commercial grounds in attracting better attendances.”

Sussex conducted an online poll on their website to canvass views of their supporters and 53% said they were in favour of a 40 overs competition with just 18% supporting 40-over cricket in two innings.

May added: “As far as the format for the 40-over competition for 2010 our preference would be for three Conferences of seven teams to include Holland, Ireland and Scotland in addition to the 18 counties.”

They also insist that the Twenty20 competition should be in two divisions rather than the current regional format.

Counties were told at the start of the season that the top nine would automatically qualify for the first division of the 20 overs English Premier League before that competition was shelved because of a lack of sponsorship and a TV deal.

May added: “There should be two divisions on merit based on this season’s performances in Twenty20 cricket rather than north and south zones.

“Whilst this does mean we lose the odd local derby it creates greater interest in more games all through the league stages.”