Sussex have suffered a major injury blow three days before they start their Championship defence.

Vice-captain Mike Yardy is out for up to six weeks after breaking his left index finger during the friendly against MCC at Lord's yesterday.

Yardy, 25, was on 99 not out when he was struck by a lifting delivery from England fast bowler Steve Harmison. He will have an operation today.

Coach Mark Robinson said: "It's a clean break and Yards will be out for at least a month, depending on how quickly he heals.

"Of course it's a blow just before the season starts for the team and especially Yards. He had been playing so well."

Yardy's absence means Chris Nash is likely to bat at No. 3 against Kent in the Championship opener at Hove on Wednesday with Richard Montgomerie and Carl Hopkinson resuming last season's opening partnership.

There is better fitness news on fast bowler Jason Lewry who has missed most of pre-season with a virus which saw him lose a stone in weight.

Lewry, 36, has been working in the nets at Lord's and is hopeful of being available to face Kent.

Flight availability has delayed the arrival of fast bowler Rana Naved but he will practise at Hove tomorrow.