James Kirtley was due to be back in action for Sussex later today after he was left out of the England team for the second Test.

Kirtley was due to land at Gatwick at 3pm and then make his way to Tunbridge Wells where he will join the action in the Championship match against Kent after tea.

Kirtley's nominated substitute Paul Hutchison helped Robin Martin-Jenkins add 38 for the sixth wicket this morning before he was bowled for 18, shouldering arms to a straight one from Mark Ealham.

Matt Prior made a breezy 23, including a straight six in the first over from off-spinner James Tredwell, before he top-edged a pull off Martin Saggers and was caught at mid off.

The in-form Martin-Jenkins continued to bat well and reached his third successive half-century when he tucked Tredwell through square for two.

Kevin Innes then turned Tredwell down to fine leg to get off the mark. By now, Kent had introduced Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds to their attack.

Sussex: 257 for 8 (81 overs)