Nottinghamshire v Derbyshire preview

After two games in the T20, Derbyshire had exceeded all expectations and were 2-0. Following a fascinating game against Warwickshire, that unbeaten record went in a close finish, but we will have to play at our best to stop the record going to 2-2 at Trent Bridge tonight.

Whether we like the fact or not, Nottinghamshire are a good side, albeit one that perhaps underperforms on occasion. Any squad that includes Ryan Sidebottom, Stuart Broad and Graeme Swann has to be respected, although the former is likely to bet he only one playing tonight. He will be partnered by fellow left-armer, Australian Dirk Nannes, in an awkward opening attack. Their duel with Derbyshire's openers may well decide this match, although Loots Bosman and Chesney Hughes will hope for a pitch more conducive to stroke play than at Derby the other night.

Nottinghamshire's side also includes the excellent Australian David Hussey, while Samit Patel is always a threat, especially in one day cricket. With new recruit Steven Mullaney and veteran Paul Franks both enjoying fine seasons, the Trent Bridge side seem well-equipped for this competition and should surely make the quarter finals as a bare minimum.

There's still no news on Charl Langeveldt's availability or whether he is yet on a plane, boat or tandem. He must be the only person heading OUT of South Africa right now and his appearance is crucial as far as our prospects in this one are concerned. The batting has done well thus far. Even in the difficult conditions of Wednesday we didn't fall apart, but John Morris will have stressed to them all the need to keep the scoreboard ticking over when the bowlers are making things difficult. The extra seam bowling option afforded by Langers will make a big difference. I don't see many changes unless he arrives, when he'll be a straight swap for Chris Rogers and give us greater bowling options.

At the risk of endangering my positive image, I would be surprised if we could win this one, though stranger things have happened. We need to continue to do the good things that have been a feature of the campaign thus far and hope that it is enough. If I'm back on here later today with a positive result, you can fully expect an overdose of euphoria!