Just a season ago, Nottinghamshire were fighting to stay afloat in Division One.
Now? They’re leading the County Championship pack — and no, you’re not dreaming.
As the domestic cricket season returns this weekend, it’s safe to say the tables have well and truly turned.
From Relegation Fears to Championship Contenders
Rewind to September last year, and Notts had just clinched only their second win of the entire season.
That victory over Kent was enough to avoid relegation — but just barely.
Expectations heading into 2025 were cautious. A solid top-three finish was the internal goal.
Fast forward to now, and Nottinghamshire have taken four wins from seven games.
That’s not just solid — it’s sensational.
Teamwork Is Fueling the Rise
What’s behind this sudden turnaround? According to the coaching staff, it’s all about collective effort.
Everyone’s stepping up when it matters. Seven different players have scored centuries, and seven bowlers have claimed five-wicket hauls.
It’s a proper team effort — no one-man shows here.
Coach Peter Moores, who’s guided teams like Sussex and Lancashire to titles before, compares the challenge to both a marathon and a Premier League season: relentless, demanding, and unforgiving if your standards slip.
First Innings Runs Have Been Key
Director of cricket Mick Newell puts their success down to something simple but vital: first innings runs.
Nottinghamshire have cleared 200 in every first innings so far — only title-holders Surrey can say the same.
That’s given them control in most matches, meaning they’ve only really been outplayed once — during their heavy loss to Durham.
Captain Hameed Leads by Example
The resurgence has also given new captain Haseeb Hameed a platform to shine.
Since taking over the captaincy in 2024, he’s thrived — scoring over 1,000 runs last year and currently topping Division One with 734 runs in 2025.
More than just the runs, though, Hameed has embraced his leadership role with maturity.
He credits the positive environment created by Moores and Newell, saying he felt “at home” from day one.
Smart Signings Made a Difference
Hameed also pointed to the club’s smart recruitment over the winter.
Nottinghamshire brought in Josh Tongue, Dillon Pennington, and Jack Haynes from Worcestershire — solid additions that strengthened both the bowling and batting depth.
Although injuries delayed their full impact, their presence has added a sense of competition and depth to the squad.
Youth Has Played a Huge Role
A big part of Notts’ energy boost has come from young local talent.
Just 10 months ago, 19-year-old Freddie McCann announced himself with a stunning 154 on debut, while 16-year-old spinner Farhan Ahmed made history by becoming the youngest player in Britain to take both five wickets in an innings and 10 in a match.
Since then, Ahmed has picked up crucial wickets, and McCann’s second century helped seal survival in 2024.
It’s a reminder of how local, state-school products can still shine on the big stage.
Overseas Firepower Has Boosted the Attack
To balance youth, Nottinghamshire added experience from abroad.
Fergus O’Neill, an Aussie seamer, picked up 21 wickets at under 18 runs apiece before heading home due to visa restrictions.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas has stepped in and delivered 16 wickets at 18.81 — and extended his stay.
India’s Ishan Kishan will also be stepping in for a short spell, covering for South African keeper Kyle Verreynne.
It’s this kind of strategic depth that’s keeping the momentum rolling.
The Tactical Balancing Act Ahead
The upcoming challenge? Managing selection as pitches dry out.
Spinner Farhan Ahmed will become more valuable, but fitting him into the XI could mean dropping a batter — especially now that No. 8 isn’t occupied by a bowling all-rounder like O’Neill.
It’s a tactical juggling act: sacrifice some batting stability to take 20 wickets and win matches? Or stay conservative and risk draws?
Veteran Presence Still Matters
Amid all the talk of new signings and fresh faces, Nottinghamshire’s seasoned players are still delivering.
Ben Slater, now in top form, has notched six fifties this season, building on his best campaign in years.
Meanwhile, Brett Hutton — the top wicket-taker in 2023 — is back in full flow after injury, already grabbing 24 wickets this season.
Staying Healthy Is the Final Hurdle
As the business end of the season approaches, fitness will be everything.
The combination of seasoned veterans and rising stars has worked wonders so far, but keeping bodies fit and minds fresh is the final key if Nottinghamshire want to stay in control and possibly lift their first title since 2010.