There is only one negative of being thrust into Notts Outlaws’ squad for the talented Matthew Montgomery; less time to revise for an upcoming exam in Finance at Loughborough University. 

Whilst squeezing studies into recovery days, the South Africa-born all-rounder, who has reveled in starting role in the early Vitality Blast matches, has affirmed his desire to be an multi-format cricketer.

He is again named in a 14-man squad to face Worcestershire Rapids at Trent Bridge, with the Outlaws looking to respond to defeat against Yorkshire Vikings last time out. 

SQUAD

“I have always felt my game is well suited to T20 cricket,” Montgomery said. 

“It just so happened that a gap opened up in the red-ball side so I got thrust in there a bit earlier but I have always backed my white-ball game.

“I want to play all formats, and I feel like I offer in all three areas - batting, bowling and fielding - which can help my case. 

“I’ve tried to play to my strengths and so far that seems to be working quite nicely. That is credit to the culture we have at Notts where you are told to go out there and do what you do best, and you’ll be backed.”

Prior to taking to the field for the Outlaws, Montgomery played in two games for his native KwaZulu-Natal five years ago, not batting in one and guiding his side to a four wicket win with an unbeaten 30 in the other. 

Donning Notts colours in the Blast this year, the 23-year-old has totted up 126 runs, including a 29-ball half-century on debut and 41 against a strong Lancashire Lightning outfit at Old Trafford.

“I’ve been really happy with the way I’ve started,” he continued. 

“It was a bit of a blessing that we came out of the County Championship game against Essex, straight into the T20s. I was thrown into things on Friday against Derbyshire and I didn’t have much time to think about it. 

“It was my first experience of a packed Trent Bridge and I really enjoyed it. You have to soak in those moments and make the most of it, but also remember why you are there and contribute to the side.”

Ahead of a meeting with Worcestershire Rapids - who are unbeaten in their three game thus far - Montgomery highlighted the importance of an internal focus and belief in their game.

A win will be the Outlaws’ third of the competition having overcome the Falcons in their opening game, and Durham in the North East. 

“The result against Yorkshire doesn’t affect things too much, it’s important to back ourselves and play our own style of cricket and that game could have gone either way,” he said.

“We haven’t played the complete game, and that is just a matter of everyone knowing what skills they are bringing to the group and executing their role.”

It’s really important to have a clear blueprint and play to it, but obviously adjust as needed. 

The way Notts have been so successful recently is by playing an extremely positive brand, being almost braver than other teams. If we can do that going forwards, we will continue to have the success that we’ve had in past years.”