Derbyshire Falcons face Notts Outlaws at The 3aaa County Ground on Friday – we take a look at one to watch, Alex Hales.
The first meeting between the two sides this summer was a thriller, with over 400 runs scored on a record-breaking night. Wayne Madsen top scored with 86 not out as Derbyshire posted their joint highest total in Twenty20 hitting 222-5 – but it wasn’t enough as Notts claimed victory by five runs.
The England batsman was out for just four in the fixture at Trent Bridge, but has gone from strength to strength in the competition since then.
He hit his maiden NatWest T20 Blast century for the Outlaws in the five-wicket win over Yorkshire Vikings, the opener striking 101 off 47 balls, including 14 fours and four sixes.
Known for powerful hitting, the 28-year-old is averaging 48 after seven innings in the competition so far, with an impressive strike rate of 200.
He will be a prized early wicket for the Falcons and fast bowler Matt Henry has been in prolific form recently, most notably taking 3-18 in the seven-wicket win versus Leicestershire Foxes on Sunday 30 July. He praised the Derbyshire bowlers and feels the Falcons are hitting their stride ahead of a busy run-in.
“We’ve got some attacking bowlers in our unit and I think everyone stepped up today in their own way,” said Henry.
“We worked really hard in the areas we wanted to improve on over the last few weeks and we have slowly got better and better.”
He added: “Every game you play at this point in the tournament is important we are focusing on one game at a time and not getting too far ahead of ourselves. We are enjoying our cricket and it is coming along nicely now.”
The Falcons will be looking for revenge on Friday night at The 3aaa County Ground, and tickets are still available.
Notts Outlaws – Fri 4 August
Durham Jets – Tue 15 August – BUY
Worcestershire Rapids – Fri 18 August – BUY
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