Bugs cause Sussex friendlies to be moved - Lancashire clash may have to be moved

Sussex are holding out hope their county championship opener against Lancashire can take place at Hove - despite an insect infestation that has damaged the outfield.
The Hove outfield has been hit by an insect infestationThe Hove outfield has been hit by an insect infestation
The Hove outfield has been hit by an insect infestation

Their two pre-season friendlies against Surrey and Hampshire have been moved from the 1st Central County Ground to allow the outfield to continue to recover from a recent leatherjacket (crane fly larvae) infestation.

The match against Surrey on Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 March will now be played at the Kia Oval. The fixture with Hampshire on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 April will now be played at the Ageas Bowl.

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A Sussex statement said: "It is hoped that the team’s opening match of the LV= Insurance County Championship season against Lancashire will still take place at Hove. Conditions at the ground will be assessed at the end of next week, with the two clubs then taking a decision on where to play the fixture."

Regardless of venue, all three fixtures will be played behind closed doors as per government regulations. Sussex Cricket said they would like to thank Surrey, Hampshire and Lancashire for their understanding and assistance in this matter.