Express & Star

Last-wicket duo deny Ian Bell a win in final match

Ian Bell was denied a win in in his last professional cricket appearance as Warwickshire were frustrated by Glamorgan, who held on for a draw by their fingernails.

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Bell, who announced his retirement before the game at Sophia Gardens, added 140 runs during the game and was given an ovation by both teams, umpires and coaching staff as he left the field for the final time.

The 38-year-old chose not to speak of his own achievements in the immediate aftermath of the game after final wicket pairing Michael Hogan and Timm van der Gugten survived the final three overs.

Instead he reflected, briefly, on the future for his beloved Warwickshire.

“It was a brilliant four days,” said the veteran of 118 Test matches for England.

“To nearly win was a great effort from a young team.

“They kept going throughout a long day, but it shows how dedicated this young group are and it augurs well for the future.”

Glamorgan had resumed on the final day in pursuit of 331 on nine without loss. They were 69 for two at lunch and much credit goes to Nick Selman in the afternoon for his defiant innings of 73 as he battled hard to save the match.

Warwickshire were in with a real chance of the win when Oliver Hannon-Dalby had Selman leg-before.

With wickets falling, the Bears were hopes were raised further when Lukas Carey edged Hannon-Dalby to slip, but Hogan and van der Gugten saw their team to a draw – albeit with a few scares for Hogan in particular, who came perilously close to providing an edge to an eager slip cordon.

Warwickshire finish the campaign in third place in the group, while Glamorgan are rooted firmly to the bottom. The visitors’ attention now turns to the Vitality Blast where they host Glamorgan at Edgbaston on Friday night.