Ethan Bamber spoke of his delight at how Warwickshire were able to turn a testing opening day into a dominant victory, as they triumphed by 377 runs against Yorkshire in a thrilling Rothesay County Championship fixture at Edgbaston Stadium.
The Bears picked up their second win of the campaign to boost their chances of silverware, battling back from being bowled out for 147 on day one, to winning by lunch on day four.
Bamber has been a vital part of Warwickshire’s success with the ball so far this season, taking 21 wickets at an average of 25 through six matches, with six of those coming against Yorkshire this week.
“The boys are very happy,” he said. “That was a thoroughly professional display.
“To win like that after the position we were in in the first innings just shows the quality in the dressing room and the belief in the group that we can navigate any situation.
“There was a bit of disappointment with where you find yourself in the game after the first innings, but also recognition that it was really tough.
“As a bowling group we pride ourselves on being able to perform in any conditions, and when things are in your favour being able to bowl as you’d like to.”
After being dismissed for 147 on day one, Warwickshire fought back on day two, bowling the visitors out for 152 before posting a mammoth 553 for six, declaring at tea on day three to set Yorkshire 548 for victory.
Yorkshire were five down by the close of play, and Bamber says the fight shown by the team so far this season makes them a difficult side to play against.
“The way the lads approached that third innings was so impressive, ruthless and just great to watch,” he added.
“What I’m really enjoying this year is that underlying belief. Through the course of the season, you’re going to be in tough situations, and we have this year in moments where we haven’t quite nailed our skill or conditions have been hard.
“We know that if we can scrap and get ourselves a level footing, we have the quality to get a good result in the game.”
Bamber claimed two for 46 in the first innings, including the wicket of Harry Brook when he was well set on 40, before returning to take four for 50 in the second innings to help his side over the line.
While Bamber took six wickets in the match, the returning Olly Hannon-Dalby claimed seven, with Bamber impressed by the whole unit across the four days.
“Especially with the new ball, you always want to make an impact and set the tone, so I’m pleased,” he said.
“I think the way Olly bowled today was class, so consistent, so patient and that was a great example for us all.
“I think we’re all feeling like we can contribute and that’s a great place to be. It’s really competitive but really cohesive as a group. Everyone is pushing one another to execute at a high level so it’s a great group to be part of.”
Warwickshire return to Rothesay County Championship action on Friday 15 May, with Glamorgan visiting Edgbaston Stadium.