"In-demand" Alex Hales to miss part of T20 Blast due to overseas commitments

Hales has agreed a deal to play in the Lanka Premier League in July. The Blast group stage is scheduled to run from May 30 to July 19

Alex Hales will miss part of the T20 Blast after signing up for the Lanka Premier League in July.

The Blast group stage is scheduled to run from May 30 to July 19, with Nottinghamshire starting their campaign at home to Northants Steelbacks on May 31.

Hales will be available for their first eight group matches and will return for September's knockout fixtures should the Outlaws qualify.

^{Hales will be available for eight T20 Blast group matches [Stu Forster/Getty Images]}

The 35-year-old, who signed a T20 Blast only contract with Nottinghamshire in February, scored 328 runs at a strike rate of 140.77 in 15 appearances last season.

"We knew that there may be a potential schedule clash for Alex this year - he is an in-demand player and we have to respect that he has earned the right to play in global competitions at this stage of his career," director of cricket, Mick Newell, said.

"We were honest with each other when he signed his extension, albeit he was still awaiting offers from overseas leagues at that time.

"We know that he loves playing for Notts - it's been his home for his entire professional career, and he's has spoken multiple times about his enjoyment he has for playing at Trent Bridge.

"I have no doubt he'll offer us a lot during the time he has with us, both on and off the field, and we'll look forward to welcoming him back should we reach the quarter-final stages."

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