Fast bowler Luke Fletcher says the ten-day gap between fixtures has left Nottinghamshire’s cricketers desperate for the visit of Essex to come around.

Fletcher has been one of the leading performers over the first seven championship matches, picking up 22 wickets at an average of 24.

Despite his individual successes, he accepts it has been a tough start for the county’s supporters to endure.

“It’s true,” he said. “The season isn’t going to plan from a player’s point of view and I can completely understand why some of the fans are frustrated. Notts is a big club and everyone expects big things from us.

“The schedule has been pretty tough, so initially we were able to get for a bit of time with our families and loved ones, which is important,” the 30-year-old added.

“Obviously everyone is desperate to get things going in the right direction.

“In terms of getting back on the horse and trying to get the first win, we are all desperate for this match to come around and we’re looking to go hard against Essex, who are going well.”

The visit of Essex will see Fletcher welcome a new fellow member of the bowling cartel, with Indian international off-spinner Ravi Ashwin replacing James Pattinson as overseas player.

“In comes Ravi Ashwin now, a fresh face, who can hopefully freshen things up and provide a new line of attack for us,” said Fletcher.

“He seems a really nice bloke. Now we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do on the park.”

With Trent Bridge having hosted five matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup, Notts haven’t been able to play at their home venue for six weeks.

“It’s always nice to get back to Trent Bridge after some time away,” said Fletcher.

“The World Cup went down really well, but it’s lovely to have Trent Bridge back for ourselves because it is one of the best grounds in the world and we can’t wait to get back playing there.”

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A Notts Outlaws squad brimming with international talent will commence their T20 Vitality Blast campaign against Worcestershire Rapids at Trent Bridge on Thursday 18 July, with adult tickets priced at £10. Secure your seats…