Mike Yardy hits a much-needed 100

Sussex moved out of the relegation zone in the LV=County Championship after a hard-fought draw with runaway leaders Yorkshire at Hove. A classy century from Mike Yardy was the highlight of the four days which was halted early due to persistent rain on the final day.

Yorkshire won the toss and elected to bat on a good-looking pitch. After a couple of early wickets, it was the class of Gary Ballance, recently dropped from the England Test side, that shone through with an excellent 165. Another former Test player, Tim Bresnan, added 78 as the league leaders amassed 494 all out.

For Sussex, it was great to see Chris Jordan back in the attack after a spell on the injury table. He took 3 for 87 off 24 overs and looked close to his best. Ollie Robinson chipped in with 3 for 72 and Chris Liddle had 2 for 119.

In reply, skipper Ed Joyce and Luke Wells put on 110 for the opening partnership before Wells and Machan were both dismissed to Adil Rashid in the space of three balls. Rashid must be knocking of the door for a start for England in the UAE. When Chris Nash fell for 18, this brought to the crease Mike Yardy, who played superbly for his 124.

This was Yardy's 22nd first-class century in a wonderful career for Sussex and the applause for his century was certainly heartfelt. The knock helped his team to maximum batting points, which could be crucial come the end of the season. Sussex made 493 for 7 when the rains came on day four. The result moved them ahead of Worcestershire.

Up next is a trip to Worcestershire on Tuesday (September 1) for four huge days of championship cricket.