Read believes Notts can challenge for the title (Getty Images)

Captain Chris Read is cautiously optimistic Nottinghamshire can compete at the top end of the Division One County Championship table this season.

Notts are back in the top flight and Read told BBC Radio Nottingham: "It takes a lot of hard work, dedication and momentum to win a championship.

"It's a long six months and wild predictions would be foolish.

"But we'd like to compete with the best and if we're still in with a chance in September then the real battle begins."