Nottinghamshire are already reaping the off-field benefits of signing two of the world's most exciting all-rounders by securing more than 650 new members for 2002.

And with new boys Chris Cairns and Lance Klusener both in top form at the moment, Trent Bridge is expecting that number to rise over the next few weeks.

On the day Klusener was recalled to the South African Test team to face Australia, Cairns claimed two wickets in his very first over of the Test series against England.

But even prior to the signing of Klusener, the membership rush had already begun at Notts with cricket fans keen to see the popular Kiwi back for a fourth spell in the famous green and gold.

Said Sales and Marketing manager Lisa Pursehouse: "Chris was always a very popular and successful player at Trent Bridge and we have been delighted with the number of new subscriptions this year.

"It has also been particularly encouraging that nearly 200 of the new members are juniors and that has to be fanatastic news for the future.

"But we're hopeful it won't stop there and the fact that we now have the added bonus of Lance Klusener playing here for the first few weeks of the season will hopefully encourage a few more people to take advantage of the excellent value our membership packages offer."

Adult membership, permitting free entry to all Nottinghamshire's County Championship, Norwich Union League and Benson & Hedges Cup zonal games - a total of 48 days' cricket - is just £74 for the season.

However, there are substantial discounts for juniors, who can enjoy the same benefits for just £10 and for senior citizens who can join for only £50.

Anyone who would like to find out more about becoming a member at Notts is asked to call 0115 982 3000.

© Nottinghamshire CCC