ESSEX defeated Sussex by 17 runs in their Twenty20 Cup match at Hove.

Skipper Mark Pettini won the toss, decided to bat and saw his side bowled out for 148 from 19.4 overs.

England star Ravi Bopara lead the way with 45, while Pettini added 31 and Ryan ten Doescate 28.

Sussex were bowled out for 131 off 19.1 overs, with Chris Wright taking 4-24 and Graham Napier 3-21.

Full match report to follow.