Sitting in the sunshine at Hove on Tuesday, about to attend my 35th Sussex press day, I was asked if the start of the cricket season means as much now as it did back at the first one I went to in 1989, a wet-behind-the-ears local paper reporter hoping than when I stepped into the press box at the County Ground for the first time I’d at least be tolerated, if not welcomed.

But I worry about Sussex’s long-term future. If I’m still around to come to a 45th press day (that’s assuming I’m invited) will it be to a preview a season like the one which starts today (Friday 5 April), with Sussex competing in three competitions and the first-team the shop window for a county where the recreational, women’s and disability game seems to be in rude health. Continue Reading