Middle order contributions from Adam Voges, Ali Brown and Chris Read helped Nottinghamshire reach 257-6 after rattling through the Durham tail.

Phil Mustard added just 7 runs to his overnight score of 113 and his dismissal signalled the end of the home side’s resistance as Plunkett, Claydon and Borthwick quickly followed.

Andre Adams finished with 5-92 but it was Sidebottom who induced Mustard to edge to Chris Read in what may prove to be his final appearance in a Nottinghamshire shirt.

Sidebottom batted as a nightwatchman following the departure of Chris Read in the penultimate over of the evening session but Darren Pattinson will resume alongside Steven Mullaney (23) having been nominated as cover for international call-ups.

Notts made a slow start with Samit Patel departing for 4 but after the fall of Alex Hales (13), Voges and Mark Wagh got the innings back on track.

Wagh made a patient thirty before he was bowled by Liam Plunkett whilst Voges fell lbw to Davies for 48. Ali Brown’s 52 was useful but a loose shot to mid-off cut him short.

“Losing Chris Read late-on was a blow for us because he was playing nicely and had already made the biggest individual contribution,” said Nottinghamshire Director of Cricket Mick Newell.

“The next session will be crucial because if we can bat through it and get close to Durham’s score then we will have much more control than we would if they get early wickets.

“All three results are possible from this point and we’re certainly not playing for a draw.”

Newell had criticised his bowling attack after day one but was pleased by the manner of their response.

“It was a very strong bowling and fielding performance this morning and we want that to continue,” said Newell.