Notts Outlaws skipper Dan Christian still has confidence in the side despite slipping to an opening Vitality T20 Blast defeat against Birmingham Bears.
The Bears gained revenge for last year's final, in which the Outlaws claimed their first 20-over title, by cruising to an eight-wicket victory thanks to an unbeaten knock of 82 from former England man Ian Bell.
But Christian still has faith, especially given last season's campaign began.
“We never got any momentum and we were at least 30 under par but if we’d been able to take a few wickets early on, then you never know," he said.
"Realistically, it was going to be difficult because whatever the wicket looks like here you know it is going to play well and it’s a small ground with a fast outfield."
“We lost our first two matches last year and still went on to win it, so it’s not the end of the world; we’ve just got to get back on the horse when we play Northants on Friday.”
Man of the match Ian Bell was delighted with his side's efforts after they got off to a perfect start.
“Obviously we are very pleased; it went well for us in the field and came on nicely when we batted," said Bell.
"We’ve had a few warm-up games to knock the rust off and we’ve come here and hit the ground running.”
The Outlaws will get the chance for an immediate response as they face Northants on Friday night, whilst the Bears are also in action on Friday as they travel to Worcestershire.
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