Jake Ball returned to spearhead the Outlaws' victory in their penultimate Vitality Blast fixture of the season against Durham, and the fast bowler is intent on ensuring his side finish well at New Road (2.30pm, Sunday 3 July). 

The 31-year-old admitted there are a multitude of reasons for the Outlaws to feel motivated going into the final game, not least an ambition to maintain a winning feeling. 

“There is a personal pride that motivates you,” he said, “Of course you want to win every game that you can as a professional. 

“Dan [Christian] touched on it in our team talk before the game against Durham: the four-day team is going so well, and we need to feed into that.” 

Reflecting on the comprehensive four wicket win against the North Eastern outfit, Ball felt it was a return to normality for Notts, who chased down 181 with three overs to spare. 

“To put on a performance like that, we were back to our old selves,” Ball said. 

“We were really happy with it, it is just a shame that it has come a little bit too late, but it’s important to build on what we have done well. 

“Lyndon [James] and Sol [Budinger] have come into the side, and have put their hands up. We know what those guys can do - they would play week in, week out, for 80% of the teams in the country. 

“With a few injuries and a couple of guys missing out, they have had an opportunity, and they have shown what they can do. We have an exciting few years ahead - the future is bright for Notts in T20 cricket.”

Friday saw Dan Christian make his final appearance as a Notts Outlaw after eight years of service donning the Green and Gold flannels.

Ball paid tribute to the Notts captain, not just for his ability on the pitch, but ability to fit in off it. 

“The biggest thing you can say about DC is that we haven’t seen him just as an overseas player, he feels like a Notts player," he said.

“That is what he has been because of the way he has conducted himself, and earned the respect of the dressing room. He will always be an Outlaw, and is welcome back at Trent Bridge.

“He has bought an obvious quality with bat and ball and in the field. He is an all-round cricketer and has won tournaments all around the world and played big parts in that. He is going to be missed.”