AJ Harris hopes to stake a claim for first team inclusion with a solid performance in the opening game of Notts’ Second XI championship campaign which begins in York today.
Harris is joined by Gareth Clough, Paul Franks and Luke Fletcher in a strong line-up which also includes trialists Will Sabey and Chris Marsden.
“The second XI is very bowler-orientated this week and I am more than happy to work with the younger guys and guide them through the intricacies of fast bowling,” said Harris, who has recovered from the nerve pain that affected him last season.
“I got 16 overs in down at Oxford and hopefully I will get a lot more this week so that I can say I’m ready for four day cricket.
“I need to start performing and put my name forward for a first team place because when Ryan and Stuart go away with England there will be opportunities for people to break in to the side.”
Second XI Coach Wayne Noon says that performances are more important than results at this stage although his side need no more motivation than knowing that they could play their way in to Mick Newell’s plans.
“We have got a lot of staff players available to us at the moment and the first team contenders need to get the ball in their hand,” said Wayne.
“Mick and I chat every day about who’s done what and I pass my opinions on to him so he won’t miss anything if players are performing consistently well.”
Notts Second XI to face Yorkshire (Second XI Championship, Stamfor Bridge, York): Alex Hales, Chris Marsden, Will Sabey, Gareth Clough, Paul Franks, Rob Ferley, John Simpson, Luke Fletcher, AJ Harris, Ian Saxelby, Andy Carter
- Details of the AJ Harris Benefit Year can be found at http://www.ajharrisbenefit08.co.uk/ .