Aga shows fire

Rageb Aga appeals against Hampshire © Getty Images

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Sussex endured a largely frustrating second day of the new season against Hampshire - but one player who could afford a smile of satisfaction was debutant Ragheb Aga.

The 23-year-old Nairobi-born all-rounder became a British citizen earlier this year and - after playing club cricket in Sussex while at university since 2003 - has found a place in the senior squad.

While Hampshire were making 304 for six at the Rose Bowl, in reply to the LV county champions’ 332 all out, Aga made a quietly encouraging start.

His 2-52 from 14 overs included a notable first victim in John Crawley - on a day when Hampshire were indebted to a string of handy contributions, Jimmy Adams’ 50 and Michael Lumb’s unbeaten 77 the most significant.

Aga was content to have come through an awkward first test, bowling in a strong and chilly cross-wind, as well as having won a spot in the team so early in the season.

“Every player is going to get his opportunity,” he predicted.

“I’ve worked hard over the winter - and I said to myself when I get my opportunity I am going to try to take it with both hands.”

He did that with some well-directed seam and swing - which could easily have brought him more than his two wickets - and he was particularly pleased to have Crawley in the book.

“I enjoyed that,” he said, reflecting on the delivery which proved too good for the former England Test batsman.

“It’s a pretty strong wind out there, and it was hard work.

“But it was enjoyable, and you’ve just got to get on and do the job.”

Chris Adams held Aga’s medium-pace back until the 52nd over of the innings.

But it appeared to work in the new boy’s favour, because he struck in only the fourth over of his first championship spell.

“I just let it go, and that was that. Everything comes to those who wait,” he concluded.