Kevin Pietersen is targeting big runs in Hampshire's second innings after failing on debut for the second time in five days.
Pietersen was out for just five to a full toss from rookie Essex off-spinner Tim Phillips when he made his one-day debut for Hampshire at the Rose Bowl on Sunday.
And on his championship debut at Hove yesterday he was out for a second-ball duck after walking across his stumps, only to be trapped by another full toss - from Sussex's James Kirtley - as he tried to work the ball to the leg-side.
It led to scenes of Sussex jubilation as Hampshire were suddenly 85-4, having lost Simon Katich, who had played on three balls earlier.
But despite departing after just a minute at the crease and with less than an hour of the second day's play gone, Pietersen is still hopeful of starring for Hampshire at Hove - and reminding the England selectors that he can still be the man to fill the number five spot during the Ashes series.
He said: "It's so frustrating to miss out on such a good batting pitch, but hopefully I can make up for it in the second innings.
"I'm just desperate to spend some time in the middle. Because of the foot injury I've hardly played since the match against South Africa at Centurion in February.
"There's more pressure and expectation on me this season but I always give 120 per cent and if I start to bat well I'll get my chance.
"If it doesn't work out to start with, at least I should be involved with the England one-day side.
"Then, if I manage to make a couple of big one-day scores against Australia, I could force my way into the Test side."
Robert Key and Ian Bell are seen as Pietersen's main rivals for the one Ashes batting spot up for grabs and they made four and 63 respectively in the first innings of Kent's match against Warwickshire at Canterbury.
But Pietersen added: "I don't see myself as being in competition with anyone. I don't wish bad luck on any of the other batsmen, and certainly don't sit there thinking 'I hope Robert Key gets out for a duck today.'
"As far as I'm concerned the best man deserves the chance. I'm not in a competition, I'm just concentrating on my own game and know I have to play as much as possible and score as many runs as possible. And I know there's a lot of practice and hard work involved."
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