Paceman Johannes Bothma proved too hot to handle as Wolverhampton climbed to the top of the Premier Division.

England remain confident of going 1-0 up on the West Indies, despite losing their captain on the way to 10 for two in a dramatic conclusion to day four of the first Investec Test.

Wolverhampton are hoping for a weekend win double after lifting the Black Country Floodlit T20 competition.

Today’s stunning photograph shows the view the fans will have when Edgbaston cricket ground’s £32m facelift is completed.

Former Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf has provisionally agreed to join Smethwick.

Warwickshire have marked the 100-day countdown to the opening of their £32million Edgbaston redevelopment by signing up Graham Taylor for the season.

Warwickshire chief executive Colin Povey today confirmed the county’s new £32million ground redevelopment will be done “on budget and on time.”

This group of England players have continually set high targets high and the pivotal third day’s play saw them reach them again.

So to Adelaide, traditionally the finest batting surface in Australia, with both teams assessing a fascinating opening to the series.

Express & Star Ashes columnist Vikram Solanki believes the Ashes is deliciously posed between England and Australia going into the third day.