Jake Ball has been included in the Notts Outlaws squad to face Yorkshire Vikings at Trent Bridge (play starts 2.30pm).

One of the two teams yet to come up against the Outlaws, returning bowler Ball has kept one eye on the Vikings through the tournament.

“They have Aaron Finch at the top of the order, he’s obviously a destructive force, we’ve seen that in international cricket,” he said.

“Our challenge will be to keep him quiet, and try to get him out early. He’s their main danger, but we have two or three batsmen who are all capable of being just as impressive as he is. 

“The last couple of weeks have been fantastic for the Club in all formats. The challenge now is to keep it going. We’re even looking to take this kind of momentum into the 50-over competition, which is just around the corner.”

Ball has been ruled out of action for the past six weeks after breaking his metatarsal in his delivery stride in Taunton. After a period of intense rehabilitation, the 23-year-old has returned the squad and is keen to make up for lost time.

“It has been quite a frustrating seven or eight weeks for me,” said Ball. 

“It’s a great feeling just to be around the squad again. It’s been great to be back involved in the warm ups, even travelling and just being involved. 

“The lads have done very well. If I was to be incredibly picky it’s the batsmen who haven’t quite been 100% in chasing down totals set by the bowlers.

“It goes without saying that it would be great to make my return at home against Yorkshire.”

Jake Ball has been in and around Trent Bridge during his road to recovery, most recently involved in net sessions with new overseas signing James Franklin, an experience which has yielded more than simply bowling at a player of international calibre.

“I’ve had a couple of nets with him, and have learned lots already,” said Ball.

“He has a bowler’s brain but he bats very well too. It’s really valuable, being able to bowl at him for a while, then pick his brain about what he’s thinking with the bat and ball. He’s a great addition to the team.

“To bring someone in from the outside is always refreshing. We struggled early doors and it’s something that has already lifted the mood even further.”

Notts Outlaws NatWest T20 Blast fixture and ticket information:

v Yorkshire Vikings – Saturday 28 June 2.30pm BUY TICKETS
v Leicestershire Foxes – Sunday 20 July 2.30pm BUY TICKETS

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