Second XI Trophy Report: Worcestershire v Warwickshire
Warwickshire were narrowly beaten by Worcestershire as the old rivals launched their Second XI Trophy campaign with a high-scoring thriller at New Road.
After the home side, giving several 1st XI batsmen a game in search of form, piled up 317 for six, the Bears appeared to be drifting out of contention at 189 for five.
But Aaron Thomason (64 from 66 balls) and Alex Mellor (70 not out from 55) showed their quality in a sixth-wicket stand of 119 in 18 overs. Sunny Singh then joined Mellor to continue the fightback into the final over from which 21 were needed and 17 were acquired before the gallant effort ended in defeat
The home side’s tall total was founded on big contributions from experienced first-teamers Daryl Mitchell (113, 101 balls) and Brett D’Oliveira (56, 55). There were three wickets for George Garrett on his 2nd XI debut and two for Thomason.
Ed Pollock (35 from 17 balls) and Liam Banks (59 from 81) then continued their bright early-season form to give the Bears a strong start in reply. The innings then hit a wobble before Thomason and Mellor joined forces to set up a grandstand finish.
The Bears’ next 2nd XI Trophy game is away to Nottinghamshire at the Ladybay Ground, Nottingham, on Thursday.