Sussex start on the road - but won't have to wait long for top-flight cricket at Hove

Sussex will start their return to the Championship’s top-flight with a trip to Edgbaston.

But supporters and members will not have to wait long for cricket at Hove.

Somerset and Surrey will both visit the 1st Central County Ground in the first month of the season.

Sussex regained their place in the top flight of what is now the Rothesay County Championship, thanks to a new three-year sponsorship deal, by winning division two last term.

They visit head coach Paul Farbrace’s old club Warwickshire on April 4, then welcome Somerset and champions Surrey.

The opening month also sees them go to Trent Bridge to play Nottinghamshire.

Sussex’s away fixture with Yorkshire, who were also promoted, sees them visit Scarborough, scene of one of their rare defeats in 2024.

There will be eight Championship rounds in April and May.

The two rounds at the end of June and two rounds at the end of July will see Kookaburra balls used.

As is now customary, Championship cricket takes a break in August.

The run-in, during September, sees home games against Hampshire and Yorkshire.

The season ends with a trip to New Road to face Worcestershire.

Sussex’s Championship schedule is as follows. All home games are at Hove.

April 4 Warwickshire (a), 11 Somerset (h), 18 Surrey (h), 25 Notts (a).

May 9 Worcestershire (h), 16 Somerset (a), 23 Hampshire (a).

June 22 Durham (a), 29 Warwickshire (h).

July 22 Essex (h), 29 Yorkshire (a).

September 8 Hampshire (h), 15 Yorkshire (h), 24 Worcestershire (a).