THE destiny of Notts' County Championship title bid rests on the shoulders of their much-maligned top order, Mick Newell said today.

The club's premier batsmen have flattered to deceive all season, often failing to capitalise on the good work of a strong bowling attack.

Yesterday was the latest example of that as Notts slumped to 211 all out.

As just eight runs separated the sides after their first knocks, the match is now effectively a one-innings game.

Director of cricket Newell says the likes of Will Jefferson, Bilal Shafayat, Mark Wagh, Samit Patel and Ashwell Prince have to shine.

"We have blown one chance of winning the game, so now we have got to win a different way," he said.

"When we bat again the top five have to do the job. You can't expect the tail-enders to do it for you, especially against quality leg-spinners like Tahir.

"Four of them got in but none of made a big score in our first innings.

"But if those players can deal with Tahir then we still have a chance."