Needing to take something out of the game, Warwicks bowled first after Sussex won the toss at Hove and decided to bat.
Ant Botha took 4-63 as Sussex were dismissed for 254 in 89.2 overs. Only Ed Joyce offered any real resistance, making 107 before Chris Woakes trapped him LBW.
Naqaash Tahir chipped in with taking 3-48 but was run out without scoring when Warwicks batted.
Ant Botha was lbw after making one run from eight balls but Ian Westwood was 11 not out and Ian Bell two not out as Warwicks ended up at 15-2 at stumps.
Warwicks Second X1 are in action against Sussex in a friendly match at Coventry & North Warwick cricket ground.
Stefan Piolet made 150 not out and Dougie Brown 67 as Warwicks declared on 329-8. Sussex were 26-0 at the close.