Mick Newell has praised the hardworking culture of his Nottinghamshire squad as bats and balls become increasingly prevalent in pre-season training.
The Outlaws group were primarily focussed on fitness prior to their Christmas break, but now things are getting more technical.
“Pre Christmas, fitness took the priority with little bits of batting and bowling going on,” said Newell.
“Now we’re on more of a split with fitness still ongoing but with more cricket sessions, which will continue to build-up during February and March.
“Some want to make technical adjustments and if they’re going to change things about their game, this is the time of year to do it.
“Conversations at the end of the previous season are the starting point for that. Now it’s about the coaches working with them on the things they need to change.
"What’s pleased me most is the culture of really hard work," added Newell. "It's the best we’ve had in a long time.
“Young players drive that because they are keen to improve & impress and the senior players have responded to the challenge by embracing what Ross (Herridge, Strength & Conditioning Coach) is doing with them.”
One of the hardest working fitness fanatics of all, Club Captain and reigning Player of the Year Chris Read, is currently sitting out pre-season having picked up an arm injury. Newell expects his inspirational 37-year-old wicketkeeper to be back in action by March.
“It’s a bad one for him but, if it is going to happen, this is the right time of year.
“We expect him to play a full part in the Barbados tour. If he does that we see no problem with him being fit for the start of the season.”
Supporters can register their interest in joining Nottinghamshire on their pre-season tour of Barbados, which will take place from 10-21 March 2015, by completing a short form here.