As Derbyshire Falcons prepare for Friday’s NatWest T20 Blast rival clash versus Notts Outlaws, we look at what the opposing Captain is thinking ahead of the big game.
Brought in as overseas player for the 2016 campaign, Dan Christian is enjoying leading the team in the shortest format and has been pleased at his side’s recent upturn in form, after a disappointing start to the season.
Last weekend, the Outlaws suffered a washout at Yorkshire Vikings before comfortably beating Worcestershire Rapids live on Sky Sports, with West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell playing a starring role.
“It was a pretty big weekend for us,” said the Australian. “Unfortunately we got that wash-out in Leeds on Friday night but to get a game in Saturday was great for us and obviously getting the win made it even better.”
“Andre Russel bowled really well up front, he was pretty quick and then at the end he finished it off well. Then he came in to bat and put the icing on the cake in that innings as well.
“I think we’ve got all bases covered really in terms of our team on paper but to add someone like that, who can clear the pickets pretty easily with the bat and then bowl 90mph, plus he’s probably the best fielder in the world right now, so he’s a pretty handy addition.”
Russell’s short-term contract with Notts finishes after the trip to Derby and his Captain is looking for more fireworks from his fellow overseas star as the Outlaws look to claim local bragging rights.
Christian added: “He played really well at Worcester and hopefully he can do it again for us on Friday.”
“I think one of my first games last year was this fixture; the derby at Derby – and I think they just got over the line at the end of the game, so we’ll obviously be looking to change that result this year.
“We’re playing some really good white ball cricket at the moment and hopefully we can keep that momentum going.
“It’s a little bit clichéd but we’ve got to take it one game at a time and continue to build on the momentum that we’re generating each game.
“The bowlers are getting better and better and the batsmen are getting better and better and we fielded really well in the last game, so we’ve got to keep building on that momentum.”
Supporters can save 20% by purchasing their NatWest T20 Blast matchday tickets in advance of the day of the game. Buy online, over the phone by calling 01332 388 101 or in person at The 3aaa County Ground.
Notts Outlaws – Fri 24 June – BUY
Northants Steelbacks – Sun 3 July – BUY
Yorkshire Vikings – Sun 10 July – BUY
Lancashire Lightning – Wed 13 July – BUY
Worcestershire Rapids – Fri 22 July – BUY
