Powell plunders Sussex

Michael Powell hit 70 n.o. to put Warwickshire in a strong position in their championship match against Sussex at Edgbaston. They finished 259 runs ahead at 165-2. Powell was not unsettled by interruptions for showers which took 64 overs out of the day's play and increased his scoring rate. Dominic Ostler (66 n.o.) provided firm support and in so doing became the season's leading championship run-scorer.

The showers seemed to affect Sussex more than the batsmen. Yet there is still some to go for Warwickshire to consolidate their lead in Division Two especially if they encounter the wet conditions of today. Sussex captain Chris Adams, who had been ill earlier, resumed his place in the side after tea. It was in the final hour that Powell and Ostler plundered the bowling to take their third-wicket partnership to 131.