SURREY V SUSSEX at the Kia Oval (Royal London One-Day Cup), 6 AUGUST 2014

Sussex dragged themselves off the bottom of Group B with today's three-wicket victory over Durham at Hove. Still, in a nine team group, this is a case of eighth meets ninth.

Other than Ed Joyce and lower order contributions from Steffan Piolet, who made 63 not out against Notts coming in at seven, and Yasir Arafat and Will Beer, who combined for an undefeated 97 in 15 overs today, no one has really fired with the bat in the Royal London One Day Cup for the Sharks.

With the ball, Yasir Arafat was the pick of the Martlets' attack up at Edgbaston, but not even his 3-36 could prevent Warwickshire romping to victory. Thankfully, for him, his 3-47 did not go unrewarded against Durham earlier. Despite being amongst the wickets this year, 25-year-old spinner Will Beer has been expensive; which pretty much goes for the rest of his colleagues.

It seems a far cry from Sussex's recent form in 40-over cricket - third in their group last summer and semi-finalists in 2011 and 2012. Last term Luke Wright was in sublime form with the bat, making 502 YB40 runs at an average of 62.75. In addition to Joyce, the likes of Matt Machan, Chris Nash and Michael Yardy could be relied upon to play the occasional cameo. The bowling was less of a threat in 2013, even though Chris Liddle claimed 19 one-day wickets at 20.52 runs apiece. Against Notts at Horsham the other day, Liddle's figures made for sorry reading - 10-0-86-0.

Click here for the Surrey v Sussex List A Records sheet as at the start of the 2014 season.

If he plays, 19-year-old seamer Jack Winslade will be making his first competitive appearance. Stuart Meaker is four wickets away from 50 List A career victims.

Today's tied game against Kent took its toll. Zafar Ansari and Chris Tremlett have been stood down, while Vikram Solanki is not expected to play after straining a calf muscle. So, in come Aneesh Kapil, Tim Linley, Freddie van den Bergh and Jack Winslade.

The weather could be an issue tomorrow, if the forecasters are to be believed. But, all being well, the rain will blow away, which will probably be more to Sussex's liking than banged-up Surrey. Verdict - Sharks win.

E Joyce (capt), L Wright, C Cachopa, C Nash, M Machan, B Brown (wk), Yasir Arafat, S Piolet, W Beer, C Liddle and L Hatchett.

Steve Garratt and Peter Hartley.

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