Nottinghamshire’s first-class season began against Loughborough MCCU this week with the team missing the familiar face of Michael Lumb.

The left-hander has been ruled out of the early part of the season after surgery on a torn tendon in his arm. Now the 35-year-old, in his fourth season with the club, is firmly focused on getting back on the field.

“It is frustrating missing the start of the season," he said. "All I am aiming for at the moment is getting back on the field and scoring runs again.

“At the moment I am likely to be back around June and am slightly ahead of schedule, but Jon Alty and the medical team will continue to assess how they feel my recovery is going.”

When Lumb returns to the first team picture, he is hoping to join a squad still competing for trophies in all three domestic competitions.

The former Hampshire man is impressed by the new players recruited by director of cricket Mick Newell during the close season - and he is hoping the team can win big matches when silverware is in sight during 2015.

“The main aim is to take it that step further in all competitions which this squad is definitely capable of doing,” he said.

“We are getting into good positions in all competitions. It is about learning how to deal with the pressure moments as they will come around time and time again.

“The bowling additions will be a huge help. Both Ben Hilfenhaus and Vernon Philander are class players and will help our young attack move onto the next level,” Lumb continued.

“We have all seen what Darren Sammy can do with bat and ball in the shortest format of the game and he will be an exciting addition to the T20 side.

“The other additions are also great players and have fitted in well. I am confident they will perform when called upon in the big matches throughout the season.”

 

The excitement of the NatWest T20 Blast returns to Trent Bridge in May as Notts Outlaws hope to break the 10,000 barrier for the arrival of reigning champions Birmingham Bears on Friday 15 May.

Adult tickets are available at a special price of £10 and further discounts in place for under 16s (£5), under21s (£7) and senior citizens (£7) when buying in advance. Make Trent Bridge a firm fixture for your Friday nights and secure your seats now.