Second XI Championship report: Warwickshire v Durham
Andy Umeed’s excellent second innings 132 wasn’t enough for the second XI Bears as they agonisingly fell two runs short against Durham.
After reaching 175 all out in response to Durham’s first innings 195 total, the visitors extended their 20 run lead to 387 thanks to opener Cameron Steel who struck 112 after scoring 90 the first time around.
The Bears, needing 388 to win, were led by the classy Umeed whose 132 came from 252 balls and included 18 fours and one six.
Umeed received strong support from Nicholas Hammond and Alex Mellor who both scored 43, before being dismissed with the side on 270 for four.
Aaron Thomason (31), Calvin Dickinson (28), Alex Thomson (30) and Ethan Brookes (28) helped continue the momentum, but the Bears were bowled out of 386.
Nevertheless, it was a productive three days for the hosts who saw Ryan Sidebottom bowl 25.4 overs in the match on his way back to full fitness and Brookes, younger brother of Henry, finish with match figures of 22-6-79-4.
The second XI will now head to Kibworth Cricket Club for a three-day second XI match against Leicestershire starting on Tuesday July 10. Chris Woakes, who is returning from injury, is expected to play.