Moores is definitely making Notts merrier
AFTER a disastrous 2016 season, Nottinghamshire’s rebuilding job is already off to a flying start and bowler Luke Fletcher has no hesitation when asked to identify the catalyst – new head coach Peter Moores.
Notts were relegated from Division One with a whimper last season, but two wins from two means those dark days are nearly forgotten – with Leicestershire and Durham, who both started the season on minus points, both comfortably dismissed ahead of the clash with Sussex, starting today.
Fletcher has been a revelation, taking ten wickets already and hitting 92 as a nightwatchman against Durham, eight runs short of his maiden first-class century when he was cruelly run out after slipping.
Operating alongside international stars Stuart Broad and James Pattinson, he is part of arguably the most potent bowling attack in the division, which explains why neither Leicestershire nor Durham could score more than 251 runs in a single innings against them.
Two wins and 44 points is a dream start and Fletcher claims Moores has helped create a harmonious atmosphere on and off the pitch.
“It feels like a new beginning,” said Fletcher. “Most people have forgotten last year. It was in the back of our minds but we have geared towards this year.
“We have shown great intensity in training and as long as that continues then I think we will have a great year.
“Peter has been brilliant. All the players have a lot of respect for him, just like they do for Mick (Newell, director of cricket). He is a chilled out bloke but his motto is ‘work hard, play hard’.
“If we have some success, he is happy for us to enjoy it. It is important to remember we are still human beings and we like to have fun off the field.
“Whenever I am training, I know I need to be switched on and working hard.
“But when I am not, I can go out, have a good time and do things like that off the field.
“Peter has brought a different vibe around the dressing room. We have all enjoyed what he has brought to the table.”
Fletcher’s knock of 92 against Durham was pivotal to the outcome, helping his side build from 96-4 to 305 all out, but he was left distraught when he was run out by Keaton Jennings.
“I actually felt I could have cried! If the lads were not around, I could have had a cry,” added Fletcher.“But in the context of the game it was crucial.
“That Durham attack is one of the best in the country and it warms us up nicely for another tough match against Sussex – they are a side who have always been a top-tier outfit in my life so we know they will be tough to beat.”
Sussex, in contrast, have suffered a major blow ahead of the clash with the news that star bowler Vernon Philander has been ruled out for the next three weeks with a groin injury.
The South African quick suffered the injury during their opening clash of the season with Kent last week, which prevented him from bowling in the second innings as the south coast side were defeated.