Here are five matches for Nottinghamshire fans to look forward to at Trent Bridge and various out-grounds this summer.
Surrey – 23rd August at Welbeck
This fixture does not hold a lot of weight locally or historically, but Nottinghamshire go into this summer’s 50-over competition as one of the favourites, with Surrey being one of their closest title rivals. This fixture could see Ben Duckett and Mark Stoneman go head-to-head at the top of the order, with Steven Mullaney and Tim David providing fireworks on either side. Both sides have elite bowling units when everyone is available, Notts can count international pedigree such as Stuart Broad and James Pattinson amongst their group, alongside steady hand Luke Fletcher.
Loughborough Lightning vs Southern Vipers and Notts Outlaws vs Northants Steelbacks double header – Sunday 29th May at Trent Bridge
Double headers are always a good opportunity to get an afternoon/evening out and enjoy two games sometimes for the price of one. This time it is a big clash between the Lightning and the ever-strong Vipers ahead of the Notts men facing the Steelbacks who will have some grievances over their relatively poor performances in recent years. Notts will again be strong and will look to avenge their narrow exit to Hampshire last time around.
Worcestershire – Thurs 28th April to Sun 1st May at Trent Bridge
As midlands rivals, Worcestershire have plenty to say about Notts over recent years, especially over the perceived poaching of young talent. Joe Clarke is the most notable current Notts star who has made the switch to Trent Bridge after leaving New Road, both he and his former side will be up for this fight. Both sides are extremely strong outfits when fully fit, Worcestershire counting Moeen Ali among a number of strong domestic performers like Ed Barnard, Josh Tongue and stalwart Darryl Mitchell.
Sussex – Tue 26th to Fri 29 July at Trent Bridge
This fixture is not notable for any specific rivalry based reasons, but there is real potential for fans to see the return of a certain Jofra Archer to long-form cricket for the first time since last year.
Birmingham Bears – Fri 17th June
A Friday night contest under the lights between the two biggest midlands sides? There is nothing to not like here. Both sides will hope to have full strength XIs ready for this clash. Birmingham can name Carlos Brathwaite in their ranks this season so Notts will have to be at their best to keep the big Bajan quiet. At its best Trent Bridge is right up there with Edgbaston and Old Trafford for atmosphere, and there is no better time than a Friday night T20 to get the ball rolling.
Notts fans will be keen to get down to as many games as possible, especially in a season where their team has a chance at honours in three formats.
