Tom Moores began Nottinghamshire Academy’s season with a half-century in a dramatic draw against Clifton.

The England U19s international opened the batting for Paul Franks’ men and scored 63 off 78 balls as they reached 113-1 in pursuit of 252 to win.

Moores struck eight fours and a six in his impressive innings. However, his untimely run out came in the midst of an upper order collapse of four wickets for ten runs, bringing together Paul Franks and Connor Marshall with the score on 123-5.

Franks, donning the whites for the first time since retiring from first class cricket, scored 25 in a partnership of 46 with the leg-spinning all-rounder contributing 19.

A further clatter of wickets condemned the Academy to 193-9 with 16 balls to go, but Clifton were repelled by the staunch defence for 11 deliveries of last man Aniz Raza.

Louis Bhabra’s 14 not out off 33 balls was also an invaluable contribution to the draw, as Notts emerged with eight points to commence their Nottinghamshire Premier League campaign, which continues next Saturday against Kimberley at Ladybay.

Opening pace bowler Ben Kitt had earlier taken 3-36, and Marshall 3-44, as the home side posted 251-9 from their 50 overs.

 

The excitement of NatWest T20 Blast returns to Trent Bridge on Friday 20 May as Notts Outlaws face Birmingham Bears in the first of seven home matches in the competition.

Supporters can witness every minute of the action with a NatWest T20 Blast Season Ticket, priced at just £84 (adults), £63 (over 65s) or £203 (family 2+2), with Membership available to U16s at £26 and U21s for £36.

Make Trent Bridge a firm fixture for your Friday nights and secure your seats now.