After Nottinghamshire's two-day match with Northamptonshire scheduled for today (Thursday) and tomorrow (Friday) was called off, the players at least got the chance to get in some 'in the middle' practice at Lady Bay.

Much of the outfield was unused and nets put up to keep the ball close to the wicket as batsman and bowlers were put through their paces in sunny but cold conditions.

Samit Patel and Riki Wessels returned after their stints in the Pakistan Super League, while a number of Academy players including Liam Pattinson-White, Tom Keast and Chris Gibson were also involved.

Seam Bowler Jake Ball said: "Getting in outdoor practice before the start of the season is very useful for me after spending a lot of the winter out in Australia in completely different conditions."

You can see pictures from the practice session in our gallery below.

The City Ground forms the backdrop for practice

Chris Nash plays off the back foot

Luke Fletcher in delivery stride

View through the nets

Luke Wood and Samit Patel catch up

Jake Libby waits for his turn to bat

Jack Blatherwick loosens up

Jake Ball starts his run-up

Luke Fletcher steams in

Riki Wessels ready to bat

Peter Moores talks to his players

Paul Harrison and Matt Milnes are all smiles

Samit Patel enjoys a joke

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