In the run up to the ICC Cricket World Cup, trentbridge.co.uk will be showcasing the finest talent on display at the tournament who have enjoyed ties with Nottinghamshire.
In the Outlaws’ quest to excel in domestic cricket, Trent Bridge has played host to exciting overseas talent over the years. From the pace and consistency of Peter Siddle in 2014, to the evergreen endeavour of David Hussey, Nottinghamshire have welcomed batsmen and bowlers of the very highest calibre to ply their trade in their famous green and gold.
Our first showcase boasts prodigal talent which even the tag of ‘world class’ seems a little remiss.
South Africa’s Hashim Amla has proven to be one of the finest batsmen across all formats, and the bearded opener will have his sights firmly set on silverware over the coming weeks.
Amla spent a paltry seven weeks with Nottinghamshire in 2010, but his impact secured him near-legendary status almost immediately.
After using Durham MCCU to get his eye in – 86 from 128 deliveries – Amla then scored 129 as Nottinghamshire brushed past Kent by an innings and 32 runs at Trent Bridge.
This became a familiar story, with 58 and 64* helping Notts beat Somerset, before another half century helped cement victory over Hampshire. By the time Amla had scored 67 against Durham on what proved to be his final appearance for Nottinghamshire, he had been the driving force in pushing his side to an enviable four wins from four matches.
Amla’s impetus and the stunning start to the season saw Nottinghamshire lift the LV= County Championship trophy at Old Trafford, and his name remains fondly discussed at Trent Bridge even now, nearly five years since he played for the county.
At the ICC Cricket World Cup, he’ll be facing Zimbabwe in South Africa’s first fixture of the tournament on Sunday15 February, and will likely line up alongside Vernon Philander, one of Nottinghamshire’s recruits for the 2015 season.
Trent Bridge hosts the fourth Royal London One-Day International between England and New Zealand on Wednesday 17 June. Don't miss the chance to take in what promises to be an absorbing contest and secure your seat now.