Paul Franks believes back-to-back victories for the Outlaws would make a big statement as the Vitality Blast competition moves into its business end.
Friday night successes such as this week’s seven-wicket triumph over Leicestershire have been a feature of the Outlaws’ tournament to date, with Derbyshire, and Birmingham Bears also on the receiving end.
The Green and Golds, however, are yet to follow up those successes to complete a weekend double – something they are desperate to achieve against Yorkshire Vikings at Trent Bridge today.
“It’s the worst cliché in sport, but you have to stay in the moment,” said the Assistant Head Coach.
“There’s still things to improve upon – and now we can start to think about Sunday.
“We concentrate on winning each game at a time and something we’ve acknowledged as a group is that we’ve not managed to put a weekend together yet.
“We’ve won on a Friday and then not managed to win on a Saturday or Sunday.
“We’re looking for the right type of performance on Sunday as we get to the more important stages of the competition.
“The forecast is set fair, hopefully there will be a big crowd – the lads are looking forward to it.
“They need a decent day’s rest – and those who played at Scarborough will take stock of what’s been a long week so far – and we need to come back strong on Sunday.
“Our Blast crowds are up there with the best in the country. We’ve given them bits and pieces to shout about so far this season, but there is very, very much more to come.
“If we can start putting some high-end performances on now, there will be plenty for them to look forward to in the competition.”
Franks, meanwhile, is excited by the form and temperament of Alex Hales, following the opener’s match-winning half-century against Leicestershire on Friday.
“It’s been a journey for him,” said Franks. “Alex has had a lot to take on and a lot to acknowledge. What I’m seeing now is what I think he’s capable of.
“Long may that continue and long may he be playing for us.
“There are still things he could be better at, but he does a lot right in terms of his preparation and what he wants to achieve from the game is very clear.
“When you combine that with talent and a decent work ethic, you’re in a good place.”
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There are two further opportunities to catch the Outlaws in T20 action at Trent Bridge this summer, with the next opportunity coming as part of a double-header on Sunday 25 August. The Outlaws' clash against Yorkshire Vikings will be preceded by Loughborough Lightning v Lancashire Thunder in the Kia Super League.