Back 9/2 Notts for NatWest Blast glory

A glance at the statistics for the qualifying stage of the NatWest T20 Blast would not point to Nottinghamshire enjoying the best form in the competition but dig a little deeper and you will find 9/2 presents excellent value for Notts to lift the trophy.

Notts have not had batsmen blazing masses of runs or bowlers blowing away teams but they have done enough to win nine matches in qualifying - the joint-second best record - and their ability to consistently win T20s stands them in great stead for the knockout stage.

Their best asset is their long batting line-up that features plenty of match-winners. Riki Wessels is in superb form, Alex Hales is one of world's best T20 players and James Taylor showed his ability to get his side over the line in chasing 201 against Yorkshire.

A home quarter-final awaits against Hampshire who have not produced their T20 form of recent seasons this term. Notts should quality and then can travel to Edgbaston for Finals Day with glory in their sights. Back them at 9/2.