Michael Clarke demands momentum against Sussex

Australia captain Michael Clarke is hoping that his side can build some much-needed momentum when they face Sussex in a tour match on Friday.

The Aussies currently trail the Ashes series 2-0 and were thumped to a 347-run loss to England, as they were bowled out for 235 in their second innings on day four of the second Test.

The Baggy Greens will now face Sussex before returning to Ashes action on August 1, and Clarke is desperate for Australia to regroup.

"It's a good opportunity for us to play some cricket and score some runs," Clarke told Sky Sports News.

"Hopefully we can work on a few things and build some momentum for Manchester in that game.

"It would be silly to go into the third Test expecting to lose. We know we've got to improve on lots of things and we know we have to win the next three."

Australia face England in the third Test of the Ashes at Old Trafford on August 1.