Mark Robinson is pinning his hopes on another batting master-class from Matt Prior as Sussex battle to avoid their first Championship defeat of the season.

They lost three wickets clearing a first-innings deficit of 79 against Middlesex at Hove yesterday and that soon became 84-4.

Prior, the one Sussex player who has made batting look relatively easy, is unbeaten on 48 following his 123 not out in the first innings but Sussex will resume today just 34 runs in front.

Robinson said: “Matt has got himself into the zone, that magical place every sportsman wants to be in and is playing superbly. He is a fantastic example of a sportsman who works through his routines religiously to stay in the now.

“We are still in the game and if we could get a 150 lead and stretch it to 200 then we will put the opposition under pressure. We haven’t really had a substantial partnership so far though and need someone to back up Matty.”

Full report in The Argus today