Captain Dan Christian has accepted that Notts Outlaws’ performances must improve if the side are to qualify for the Vitality Blast quarter-finals following defeat to Lancashire Lightning in Blackpool.

Put in, the Outlaws posted 179/7 as Samit Patel top-scored with 45 and Christian himself hit a 14-ball 30, but the hosts overhauled their target in the penultimate over despite Dane Paterson’s two wickets.

“We probably just didn’t get quite enough runs in the end,” admitted Christian. “It was a pretty good wicket and a fast outfield. In hindsight, we were 20 or 30 short and they batted really well.

“They took the initiative, particularly through that middle period. [Dane] Vilas and [Steven] Croft batted really well and didn’t let any of our bowlers settle.”

Christian’s own innings included four boundaries, and he was instrumental in hoisting the Outlaws to a competitive total, as he struck both of the final two balls of the innings for six as part of a 19-run final over.

Although content with his own showing, the skipper spoke matter-of-factly and noted that he preferred to focus on the Outlaws team as a whole.

“I felt we needed to be up around that 200 mark, so I was just trying to get as many as I could, really,” he reflected.

“Unfortunately, our bad performances have become more frequent over the past couple of weeks, and although we’re doing the right things well at different periods, we just haven’t done it all together yet.”

However, the experienced Christian is refusing to accept defeat, with five North Group games still to play and a possible ten points on offer for the Outlaws.

Notts have two potentially crucial home fixtures in three days next week when they host Leicestershire Foxes on Tuesday, before welcoming Derbyshire Falcons to Trent Bridge on Thursday.

“One of the good things about T20 is that we’re on the bus now and preparing straightaway,” said the Australian.  “There’s not too much time to dwell on those bad performances now.”

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Be More Outlaw: The 2022 Vitality Blast at Trent Bridge

Tuesday 21 June, Notts Outlaws vs Leicestershire Foxes: Secure your seats…

Thursday 23 June, Notts Outlaws vs Derbyshire Falcons: Secure your seats…

Friday 1 July, Notts Outlaws vs Durham: Secure your seats…