Kirtley and Adams celebrate with the C&G Trophy

Kirtley was banned for five months until March to undergo remedial work on a suspect action.

"This game belongs not only to Sussex, but also to James Kirtley," said Adams.

"That lad has been through the mill and he was fantastic - (England coach) Duncan Fletcher, if you're watching, his career isn't over yet."

Kirtley, 31, grabbed the man-of-the-match award as Sussex defended their meagre 172 after being put into bat.

And he admitted the win - and his performance - were all the more enjoyable having endured a difficult season.

"It's been a tough year, but today was my day," he said.

Believe me, this is the start of big things for this team Sussex skipper Chris Adams

"The boys have worked hard, scrapped and had belief and today we put on a show. We showed what Sussex are about.

"It was as well as I've bowled all year. It was nice to do it, to swing the ball around in these conditions. I had the luck today."

Adams continued: "He deserves every inch of credit he gets.

"He's got character, desire and passion, and they're the qualities any cricketer wanting to play for England needs."

Adams predicted great things for his side, while also heaping praise on the vanquished Lancashire team.

"It was an extraordinary day - I felt for every batsman out there because conditions were so tough.

"It wasn't the prettiest cricket at times but we produced a real game. I was convinced at one stage that Dominic Cork was taking the game away from us.

"It was a great toss for Lancashire to win - 172 probably wasn't enough but I've got a great side and, believe me, this is the start of big things for this team.

"They're very young, they've got great belief, they work very hard and they've got a great team spirit.

"Lancashire have got a great team and they'll go on to win something this year - but hopefully not the Championship."

Sussex and Lancashire are first and second in the Division One table with three matches left.