Paul Franks is poised for a dramatic comeback in his benefit match against Gloucestershire Gladiators this Sunday.

Nottinghamshire close their home programme for the season with the NatWest Pro40 League fixture, with the 28-year-old hoping to play by shaking off a persistent ankle injury.

Franks has been missing from action since the start of July but after almost three weeks off for rest and rehabilitation, is desperate to prove his fitness in time for the game.

He said: “It would be nice if I could be out there playing, but I certainly don’t expect to walk straight back into the side.

“I’ve got to get through a Second XI game against Northants first to prove my fitness. I’ve had two weeks off to rest and it’s been feeling much better in practice this week.

“I’ve had overwhelming support from the people of Notts, who have been very generous to me, and it would be great to see as many of them as possible at the ground.”

The match is also the last time supporters will see Trent Bridge in its current form before work begins on the £8.2m redevelopment of a new stand on the Bridgford Road side of the ground.

There’s also plenty of entertainment for youngsters off the pitch, with a face painter, crèche, bouncy castle and free cricket sessions in the Woodhead Hall.

Added Franks: “The weather forecast looks good for the weekend and hopefully that will mean there’ll be plenty of people at the ground to support both the team and myself.

“It’s an opportunity to see Trent Bridge as it stands for the last time, and we’ll be giving 100 per cent to ensure we finish our season at home in style.”

The match starts at 1.45pm, with tickets costing £13 for adults, £7 for concessions and £33 for a family of two adults and two under-16s.