Jack Leaning delivered a masterclass in composure and skill, steering Sussex to a thrilling five-wicket victory over Warwickshire in the County Championship Division One. His unbeaten 120, a first century for his new county, was the cornerstone of a successful 328-run chase at Hove, showcasing the mental toughness required in high-pressure run pursuits.

This win, Sussex's second of the young season, was forged in a brilliant unbroken sixth-wicket partnership. Leaning, the experienced right-hander signed from Kent, combined with home debutant Tom Price (70*) to add a match-defining 144 runs. Their alliance turned the tide after Sussex found themselves in a precarious position at 184-5, still needing 144 for victory.

The final morning was a tense affair, with Warwickshire's seamers applying relentless pressure. Leaning survived a close lbw shout on 77 and a nervy moment on 95, but his resolve never wavered. He reached his 12th first-class century just before the new ball was due, a milestone greeted by a standing ovation from the Hove faithful.

Rather than providing a breakthrough, the new ball liberated the Sussex pair. Price elegantly brought up his fifty, and then unleashed a flurry of boundaries, including three exquisite cover drives in a single over. With Warwickshire's attack unable to separate them, Leaning and Price guided Sussex home with a display of intelligent batting and partnership building, a perfect example of how to close out a game.