Delray Rawlins says the Sussex Sharks are keen to build on the solid foundation they have laid in the Vitality T20 Blast tournament in recent seasons.

Sussex topped the South Group and reached the quarter-final of the competition, where they lost by eight-wickets at home to Worcestershire at The 1st Century County Ground. It was a repeat of the previous year’s final which saw Worcestershire prevail by five-wickets at Edgbaston.

“Last year we definitely started well and got on a roll and the players were playing their role to the best of their ability just how the captain and coach asked them,” Rawlins told the Sussex website.

“Everything seemed pretty clear for us and we were winning games quite comfortably. We were chasing big scores and bowlers were closing out games if we were bowling second.

“Everyone was quite clear on how we wanted to go about winning games and once we got on a roll everyone’s confidence was sky high.”

Rawlins also cites the overwhelming support from the fans as a key factor to the team’s recent success in the competition.

“We definitely feel it from the fans,” he added.

“We can feel the atmosphere and the fact that they’re enjoying us playing our cricket. That spills over to the way we play. We really enjoy being out there, hich I think is important for the results we have had.

“One thing that Wrighty [Sussex captain Luke Wright] always asks is to play your role but to have fun while you’re doing it.

“That has been the difference in the last couple of years; we’ve definitely had fun while playing our cricket.

“Everyone is positive and takes the positive options. To see your mates doing well is what it’s about and it makes it easier to play well and enjoy success.”

Sussex will host Kent Spitfires in their opening Vitality Blast fixture at The 1st Century County Ground on May 28.

Essex are the defending champions after beating Worcestershire by four wickets in the Vitality Blast final last year.