Captain Joe Clarke reiterated his belief in Notts’ players as the Outlaws enter the home straight of their Vitality Blast campaign. 

The Outlaws have named a 15-man squad for the clash against Lancashire at Emirates Old Trafford, the penultimate game of the tournament for Clarke’s men. 

“Obviously we’ve been on the wrong side of results more often than we’d like, and at times we simply haven’t been good enough,” Clarke admitted.

“We are all really frustrated by that, and we’re doing everything we can to put it right, but our record this season doesn’t change how much I back the players at this club.

“Every individual picked in a squad or team is included because they have the ability to perform at this level. Some have shown it before, others are finding their feet, but Pete and I have absolute faith in what they are capable of. 

“Clearly, there is a balance to strike when you’re on the run we are on. You want to give lads an opportunity because you know they will come good.

“Lyndon [James] clicked against Leicestershire, for example, and we know it is a matter of time before the likes of Tom [Moores], Monty [Matt Montgomery] or Jack Haynes put in those performances to win us games. They’ve done it before it white-ball cricket, and I have no doubt they will do it again.

“Similarly, we know there are lads on the sidelines champing at the bit to get a go. That competition is healthy, and everyone is working really hard to translate the effort and practice that we’re putting in outside of games across to matches. 

Clarke also spoke of the value of retaining what experience he can in the side. 

His 75 Blast appearances for the Outlaws is a number beaten only by Hales (178) and Moores (108) of the current playing staff, while Calvin Harrison has played the fourth most with 47. 

“I’ve definitely leant on the support of lads who have played a lot of T20 cricket,” Clarke said.

“In the absence of some of those who have moved on this year, they’ve helped me in my first year in the role and it’s important to have them on the field. 

“Hales was brilliant when he was here, but also lads like Tom and Olly Stone are really valuable to have around. 

“Only four players have scored more runs than Tom for this club - that speaks volume of his importance and commitment to the side. 

“Olly has played international T20 cricket in a hugely competitive era for England, which shows his class. 

“He and Fazalhaq have led from the front with the ball in the last few weeks, at a time when we maybe haven’t given them as much backing with the bat as we could have, whilst Calvin has been as reliable as ever this year.

“These are all guys who I believe can help us get back on track with the records they have.”