Sussex v Surrey: Arundel suffers opening day washout

Sussex and Surrey endured a frustrating opening day at Arundel as persistent rain prevented any play in their Division One Championship game.

Umpires Stephen Gale and Michael Gough sent the teams away after a 14:45BST inspection at the Castle Ground.

Sussex have a five-point lead at the top of the table and may recall England spinner Monty Panesar, who has had a cortisone injection in his shoulder.

Surrey are eighth and are still looking for their first win of the season.

They are likely to be without pace bowler Stuart Meaker (knee problem), but Zafar Ansari is in their squad for the first time this season after completing his studies at Cambridge University.

VIEW FROM THE COMMENTARY BOX

BBC London 94.9's Mark Church:

"Drizzle in the morning and proper rain after an early lunch left the umpires with no alternative but to send everyone home.

"The forecast for Thursday is better and both sides will be keeping their fingers crossed it is correct."

Match scorecard