In a display that felt like a throwback to his finest days, Olly Stone delivered a fast-bowling masterclass to put Nottinghamshire firmly in control against Leicestershire in their County Championship Division One clash at Uptonsteel Grace Road.

The 32-year-old England international, whose career has been repeatedly interrupted by injury, produced his first five-wicket haul since 2019—finishing with impressive figures of 5-41. His performance helped dismiss the promoted Foxes to 220-8 in reply to the defending champions' imposing first-innings total of 490.

Stone's spell was all the more remarkable given Nottinghamshire were a bowler short after Brett Hutton was forced off the field midway through his fifth over. But the right-armer's quality more than compensated, consistently hitting challenging lengths and extracting life from the pitch.

For Stone, these figures represent his best for Nottinghamshire since joining from Warwickshire four seasons ago—remarkably, this is only his 11th first-class match for the club. His previous five-wicket haul came back in 2019, and this performance will surely remind England selectors of the raw pace he can offer when fully fit.

Leicestershire found some late resistance through Stevie Eskinazi, who remained unbeaten on 44, and New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel (38 not out). The pair added 74 for the ninth wicket to give the home side a glimmer of hope, though they still trail by 270 runs.

Earlier, Ben Green had starred for Leicestershire with career-best figures of 7-112, including the prized wicket of Kyle Verreynne. But the damage was already done by Nottinghamshire's first-innings batting display, anchored by Ben Slater's brilliant 178.

With two days remaining, Nottinghamshire will fancy their chances of pushing for victory and maintaining their strong start to the season. For Stone, this performance is a timely reminder of his enduring class—and a welcome sight for fans of fast bowling everywhere.