Notts Coach Wayne Noon will cast his eye over several trialists when the club’s second XI begin a two-day practice match against Loughborough UCCE today.

Academy prospect Alex Hales will be involved after hitting 95 runs for England under 19’s this week and Noon hopes that young players will benefit from playing alongside established players such as Bilal Shafayat, Gareth Clough, Rob Ferley and AJ Harris.

Notts will bat for three two-hour sessions before the bowlers take aim tomorrow, gaining valuable match practice ahead of the opening game of the Second XI Championship against Yorkshire on 7th May.

“The result isn’t important because of the structure of the match but I am hoping for at least two 100’s from our batsmen,” said Wayne.

“Bilal has a good chance to put pressure on the guys that have the first team places and having established professionals alongside young players in the second team really helps their development.

“If the staff players can do well for the seconds it gives the academy guys an opportunity to play in a no-lose situation.”

Young batsmen Nick Langford and Sam Wood have been earmarked for inclusion in the second XI after a series of solid batting performances.

Langford was a regular in the team last season and Wood, 15, averaged 40 playing for the under 17’s.

Notts Academy Director Chris Tolley says that giving young players the opportunity to play at different levels can be hugely beneficial.

“It is important that academy players have the chance to step up to the second XI and also learn to dominate matches at their own age group,” said Chris.

“Nick Langford has already shown promise in the second XI and I will work closely with Wayne Noon to discuss who is in the frame for inclusion.”