Chris Read is preparing his side for a “crucial” first hour against Middlesex this morning after his 76-ball century helped put Nottinghamshire in a winning position at Lord’s.
The Notts’ captain scored an unbeaten 101, his 22nd first class century, as the visitors posted 401 for eight before declaring their second innings closed.
Set to score an improbable 519 for the win, Middlesex closed the penultimate day on 57 for one, with Jake Ball having picked up the wicket of Sam Robson.
Read admitted a century couldn’t have been further from his mind when he elected to bat on after Tea.
And after the close on a day his side dominated, Read was more interested in talking about the team than his own personal milestone.
"It wasn't quite what I was expecting at tea,” he said.
“The plan was to come out, play positively and see where we could get to but the innings kind of snow-balled.
“Vernon (Philander) kept giving me the strike and I managed to get a few boundaries away.
“Before I knew it I had 88 on the board and he said:' You only need 12 so you may as well hang around for another over or two and see what you can do.'
“Apart from anything else, we've put ourselves in a very good position.
“We've had a good three days but there's still a lot of work to do tomorrow. The first hour will be crucial."
Follow and listen to the action live throughout the final day at Lord's with your ideal companion for every Nottinghamshire match-day Trent Bridge Live.
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.