Ryan Sidebottom is set to return to first team action for Nottinghamshire after a successful weekend playing for Leek CC in the North Staffs and South Cheshire League Premier Division.

The left-armer, who returned early from England’s tour of the West Indies to undergo surgery on his Achilles, took six wickets in 10 overs - and also enjoyed himself with the bat, hitting 69.

He has been named in the Notts squad to travel to Old Trafford to take on Lancashire, who also won their opening LV County Championship match of the season.

Notts Director of Cricket Mick Newell said: “I think ‘Sid’ enjoyed himself on Saturday and is now ready to get some first-class cricket under his belt.

“His recovery has gone according to schedule and we expect him to take his place in the side for Old Trafford. We’ve been talking regularly with the ECB and we’re all happy to let him start playing again.”

Sidebottom’s return is timely as he replaces the injured Darren Pattinson, who will be missing for a fortnight after aggravating an ankle problem in last week’s win against Worcestershire.

Samit Patel’s call-up to the England Lions for the fixture against the West Indies means that Alex Hales will be handed his ‘full’ Championship debut, after standing in for Graeme Swann against Somerset last season without being called on to bat.

In addition, Stuart Broad has been withdrawn by England ahead of the Test series, with Paul Franks coming in as his replacement.

Added Newell: “Alex will play and deserves his chance in the four-day side. He’s done well in pre-season and in the opening Friends Provident Trophy match, and this is an opportunity for him to show what he can do.”

Squad against Lancashire:
Wagh, Shafayat, Hales, Voges, Brown, Read (cap/wkt), Swann, Franks, Ealham, Adams, Sidebottom, Fletcher.