Matt Prior committed his long-term future to Sussex because he feels they can continue to dominate English cricket.

The 25-year-old has just returned from England A's tour of Bangladesh, where he was leading run-scorer, and says his game in better shape than at any time in his career.

Prior agreed a two-year extension to his contract last month which will keep him with the double winners until 2009. He said: "Signing a new contract wasn't a hard thing to do - I'm Sussex through and through, everyone knows that.

"But with the squad we have got I can see us being successful for the next five years and beyond and that was a huge factor in committing my future to Sussex.

"I was in Bangladesh when I heard we had got Saqlain Mushtaq and I think that's a great signing.

"I really feel the squad is blossoming. Even some of the experienced players are going to have to fight for their place as well as the youngsters and when you have a situation like that you know your squad is strong."

Prior returned from Bangladesh on Tuesday and has been told to rest for two weeks after a hectic winter at the National Academy.

But he admitted: "I can't wait to get back. There was even a chance I could join up with the boys on the pre-season tour but after such a busy winter it was felt it would be better if I chilled out for a few days.

It's going to be another hard summer so it's probably best that I have a rest.

"But I haven't felt as excited about the new season since my first year on the staff.

"My game feels so good at the moment. Peter Moores (academy director) and Andy Flower (batting coach) have been hugely instrumental in the positive changes I have made to my game this winter and I can't wait for the season to start."

Sussex play the Abu Dhabi President's XI tomorrow in their tour opener.