Alex Hales is determined to help fire his county to a pair of crucial NatWest T20 Blast wins, as he re-joins the Outlaws’ ranks following a successful Test series against Sri Lanka.
The Nottinghamshire & England batsman contributed scores of 86, 83 and 94 to the recent 2-0 Test triumph, but will now refocus quickly on facing the white ball for the first time since the ICC World T20 in March & April.
Fixtures against the Yorkshire Vikings and Worcestershire Rapids lie in wait on Friday and Saturday respectively, prior to reporting for England duty again with the opening fixture of the Royal London One-Day Series, also against Sri Lanka, taking place at Trent Bridge on Tuesday.
“It was originally intended for me to play one game, but I was keen to be available for both,” said Hales.
“They are big games for us as a squad because, although we are in great form in the 50 over competition, we’ve not got off to the ideal start in the T20s, so it’s important that I contribute to a couple of wins.
“One of the biggest challenges of batting at the top of the order in all formats is being able to adapt your game,” the 27-year-old continued.
“So it’s ideal preparation for the ODIs and a real opportunity to find some form.
“I haven’t hit a white ball since the World T20 so I’m going to get out in the nets and get training between now and Friday, to dust off the cobwebs and remember how to go about a T20 innings.”
Hales, who expects to bat at number three following recent opening stands of 100, 342 and 178 between Michael Lumb and Riki Wessels, is excited by the prospect of both fixtures; Yorkshire with a glut of internationals on show, while Worcestershire offers the appeal of an idyllic location.
“I went to the second game of the week at Trent Bridge and watching them (Lumb & Wessels), was incredible,” he said.
“The plan is for me to slot in at three. They have been batting so well together, so we’ll give them the chance to keep that up.
“First up, it’s going to be a big game against Yorkshire. We’ve had some great games up at Headingley in the past, like when we chased down that big score (201 to win) in 2014. Hopefully Friday will be another one.
“Then at Worcester, on a nice day it’s a really scenic ground, with a nice view of the church in the background.
“I played a couple of games for them a couple of years ago, I know a lot of their guys really well, I like the fans at New Road and every game there is a nice occasion.”
Notts Outlaws NatWest T20 Blast Fixtures & Ticket Information
Vs. Durham Jets – Friday 1 July 6.30pm BUY TICKETS
Vs. Worcestershire Rapids – Saturday 9 July 2.30pm BUY TICKETS
Vs. Yorkshire Vikings – Friday 15 July 6.30pm BUY TICKETS
Vs. Leicestershire Foxes – Friday 29 July 6.30pm BUY TICKETS
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