Derbyshire skipper Wes Durston has special memories of playing at Trent Bridge, albeit the best of them was forged on a night when the Outlaws emerged comprehensively victorious.

Durston, these days, is the Falcons T20 Captain. Back in 2010 he was trying hard to resurrect his career having been offered a short-term contract by Derbyshire on the back of being released from Somerset.

His 111 from 59 balls - against an Outlaws attack comprising Darren Pattinson, Dirk Nannes, Paul Franks and two men he’s likely to encounter again on Friday, Samit Patel and Steven Mullaney - was a pivotal moment in Durston’s career.

Rapid half centuries from Alex Hales and Samit Patel, however, ensured that Notts made light work of their target of 193 to win, romping to victory with five wickets and three overs to spare.

“The first time I played a T20 at Trent Bridge, before the game I was batting at six or seven,” the 35-year-old recalled. “I remember the coach, John Morris (a former Nottinghamshire batsman), coming up to me and giving me the opportunity to open the batting.

“It was a crushing defeat after scoring 190, but I scored 111 off 60 balls which made Derbyshire people stand-up and notice what I could do.

“I tried to blank out the crowd and concentrate on a new role for me opening the batting, but I remember from the ovation that they weren’t too hard on me. It was a very special night in my life, and I’ve opened the batting in T20 cricket ever since.”

Durston, whose Derbyshire side have won three and lost eight in the NatWest T20 Blast competition so far, says there is no game he looks forward to more each season than the T20 local derby at Trent Bridge.

“It’s always nice to play at Trent Bridge because of the facilities and the atmosphere around the ground," he said.

“They are the biggest games of the season. I always look forward to playing in those games. You’re guaranteed big crowds and the rivalry is there between the two teams, so it’s important to play well."

 

Notts Outlaws NatWest T20 Blast Ticket Information

v Derbyshire Falcons – Friday 10 July 6.30pm BUY TICKETS

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