Sussex make early running

Sussex took a huge step towards winning the Second XI Championship after dominating the opening day of their title decider with Somerset.

With victory in the final game of the season sufficient to secure the title for either side, Stefan Piolet hit 124 as Sussex piled up 403 for eight at Hove.

The 18-year-old was ably assisted by James Beeny, who contributed 53 to an opening partnership of 110, and England Under-19 international Ben Brown made a fine 95, sharing a 170-run stand for the third wicket.

Piolet, who struck 18 fours in his innings, saw Matt Machen (34), Michael Gould (29 not out) and Rageb Aga (21no) prosper later on.

Andrew Sutton was Somerset’s most impressive bowler with figures of 4-79.