Chris Adams admitted today that he is feeling the strain as Sussex edge closer to their first Championship.
The county's captain was in the wars yesterday, needing treatment for a hand injury when he parried a late cut from Stuart Law on the second day against Lancashire at Old Trafford.
But it is the mental strain which Adams says is making the title run-in so demanding.
"The season is really starting to catch up on me now," he admitted.
"Mentally and physically it's been very draining, especially in the last few weeks when we have got closer to what we all want which is a first title for Sussex.
"It certainly didn't feel like this when we won the second division two years ago. The relief will be enormous if we win it because we have put so much into this season, it will just be a huge release of emotion."
Rain meant another 61 overs were lost on the second day which ended with Lancashire 368-5 in their first innings.
Sussex have only picked up one of the ten points which would definitely secure their first title, but a good batting performance today should ensure them against defeat.
Adams added: "The pitch is very placid and we should be able to bat well on it. One more good performance with the bat is all we need and if we are disciplined we can get the solid draw which is all we need."
Mushtaq Ahmed went wicketless for the second day running and still needs one more victim to claim his 100th of the season.
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