Twenty/20 gets off to flying start at Trent Bridge
by Steve Williams, 16th June 2003

A bumper crowd, a hot sunny evening, great atmosphere, loud music and oh yes, some great cricket, ensured a sizzling start to this new competition.

A bumper crowd, a hot sunny evening, great atmosphere, loud music and oh yes, some great cricket, ensured a sizzling start to this new competition.

The game started at 5-30 on a beautiful evening, but anyone arriving half an hour late would have missed 6 wickets in an explosive start. The good news was that it was the Notts bowlers who had ripped through the Lancashire top order. Richard Logan had taken 3 of those wickets and he took 2 later on to end with 5-26, equalling the best figures so far in the competition. Only a spirited 45 from Hegg, supported by Chapple 23, gave the visitors total of 120 any credability. Notts fielded well, in particular Noon with 2 smart stumpings.

Notts started their reply in the manner of a 4 day game, facing 2 maidens and had only scored 21 from 6 overs when Afzaal swung wildly and was bowled. Gallian, who had took 10 overs in scoring his first 13 runs, was joined by Pietersen (pictured) in a 65 run stand. When the former was out for 29, Pietersen was in full flow. He was striking the ball with great power and his 50 came in just 30 balls, with 8 fours and one six. Although he was bowled by Martin with just 9 needed for victory, Notts cruised home by 7 wickets and 5 balls to spare. Logan's bowling effort just pipped Pietersen for the Man of the Match award.

If tonight's game is anything to go by, the Twenty20 Cup is here to stay.