Nottinghamshire’s second eleven have been in fine form in recent weeks, enjoying a run of results which saw them overturn Warwickshire at Edgbaston in both Trophy and Championship matches, through to completing back-to-back wins against Glamorgan at Lady Bay.

Captain Paul Franks has praised the upturn in results and hard work from his team, as stunning performances from throughout the order have seen a the side instilled with a winning mentality.

“It’s really pleasing that what we stand for as a team – namely high individual performance – has come to fruition,” he said.

“We’ve been looking to improve as much as possible, take responsibility for our performances and all of that has come together and we’ve seen an upturn in results.

“I’ve tried to encourage the lads to feel part of one effort. All three teams are performing to a very high level, and it’s important for the players in the seconds and academy to feel part of that effort. 

“It’s a great place to be at the moment.”

Much of the seconds’ fortunes have been led by the form of opening batsmen Sam Kelsall and Jake Libby, who have amassed hundreds of runs and taken games way from teams early in the contest. With Alex Hales and James Taylor selected for the England Lions, there is likely to be an opening for a batsman to step up into the first team and impress on an even bigger stage.

“Sam and Jake are two excellent young players who are trying to do very well for us,” said Franks. 

“They have built an understanding very quickly, a process that would normally take time. They can’t take it for granted though, but I’m expecting to see good things from them. 

“For Nottinghamshire players to be offered the Lions accolade is encouraging for everyone at the club, and those players will go into international cricket in good form.

“Whoever gets the nod when we lose players will have a huge opportunity to make a name for themselves, there’s a hunger for it.”

Young spinner Matt Carter came to the fore in Notts’ victory over Glamorgan last week, taking five wickets to help see his side secure victory. Younger brother of Outlaw Andy, Carter has been a player on Franks’ radar for some time, and one with potential to excel.

“He’s a player we’ve known about for a while, making his way in Club Cricket in Lincolnshire, he said.

“We saw a bit of him in a friendly earlier in the season.

“He’s a very young player, but one whose signs are encouraging. He’s a very similar character to Andy, especially from what I saw in him playing for Farnsfield. He’s very raw and naturally talented.”