The Bears reached Finals Day last year after a brilliant run in the second half of the group stage created a momentum that took them all the way to the Edgbaston showpiece where they finished runners-up to Notts Outlaws.
And as they prepare to start their 2018 group stage, away to The Outlaws next Wednesday, Troughton reveals that there is still a great vibe around the squad.
You want to build that momentum, like we did last year, so that you go into that knockout stage still playing with freedom and no fear and throwing those punches.
Jim Troughton
“Our 2017 campaign just showed what can happen if you inject a team with a bit of youth and a bit of confidence and bravery,” he said. “Our mentality was to start going out there and throwing a few punches and we did exactly that. I was very proud of how we went about it.
“To be a part of another Finals Day at Edgbaston was really special, especially with it being at our home ground. The guys want to be there again in 2018 because it’s a great day and an experience to treasure, but we have got a lot of hard work to do to make that happen.
“Tournament cricket involves a lot of games and no doubt some very tight games so it’s all about peaking at the right time. You want to build that momentum, like we did last year, so that you go into that knockout stage still playing with freedom and no fear and throwing those punches.
“That is exactly what we did in the quarter-final at The Oval. That was one of my most memorable games with the Bears. Days like that you never forget.”
Birmingham start their campaign away to Notts Outlaws next Wednesday then visit Worcestershire Rapids on Friday evening before their first home game, against Yorkshire on Sunday July 8th (2.30pm).
The Bears players are all looking forward to running out in front of big home crowds in the weeks ahead and giving their fans plenty to cheer.
“The crowds at Edgbaston were very good last year and hopefully will be even better this season,” Troughton said.
“We are really keen to put on a good show for the fans in every game at Edgbaston. Finals Day is amazing but group games at this great stadium have a real buzz too.”
