Tour match, Hove, day three (close): Zimbabwe 374-7 v Sussex

Sussex's floodlights allowed some play at Hove

The first instance of floodlights being used in a first-class match in England was not enough to prevent Zimbabwe's tour match against Sussex heading for a draw.

Sussex's second-string bowlers were able to deliver 21 overs on day three, after the second day had been completely washed out.

They took three wickets, including Mark Vermeulen for a career-best 198, but Zimbabwe remained in good health at 374-7 in their first innings.

Due to the gloomy weather, international regulations allowed Sussex to make use of their floodlights to prolong play.

And within half-an-hour of the 1400BST start, umpires Peter Willey and Mike Harris signalled they should be turned on

Floodlights have been used in one-day county cricket for the last decade, and Test regulations have allowed their use for the last three years.

But they have never been employed in the first-class game in the UK. Sussex are one of only two counties to boast permanent lights.

After striking a boundary to top his previous best total by one, Vermeulen was out to the very next delivery he, edging Kevin Innes behind.

In the next over Marillier departed for nought after mis-hitting Billy Taylor to extra cover.

And, with the floodlights on, Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak drove loosely to gully off Innes.

Sean Ervine played aggressively, though, and reaching 39 not out before further rain brought an early halt to the day.

Sussex: R R Montgomerie, M H Yardy, M W Goodwin (Capt), B Zuiderent, C D Hopkinson, K J Innes, P M Hutchison, M J G Davis, A J Hodd (Wkt), B V Taylor, J D Lewry.

Zimbabwe: D D Ebrahim, M A Vermeulen, S V Carlisle, G W Flower, D A Marillier, T Taibu (Wkt), S M Ervine, H H Streak (Capt), A M Blignaut, M L Nkala, R W Price.