The Bears' head east on Sunday for a 13-day trip during which they will get in plenty of outdoor practice and also play 50-over games against Somerset (March 15) and Worcestershire (March 16) and a three-dayer against Somerset (March 19-21).

Warwickshire County Cricket Club has confirmed that batsman Ian Bell and all-rounder Aaron Thomason will miss the pre-season tour of the United Arab Emirates, with Academy fast bowler George Garrett joining the tour party.

Bell recently returned to Edgbaston early from his stint with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League after experiencing discomfort in his foot, which further examination has revealed to be a ligament tear.

Thomason has suffered a hamstring strain and will work on a rehabilitation programme with Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach Ryan Cartledge-Taylor at Edgbaston

Jim Troughton, First Team Coach at Warwickshire CCC, said: “Whilst we’re obviously disappointed at the injuries to Ian and Aaron, it presents an excellent opportunity for George Garrett to impress at senior level, having been part of our Academy for the last three years.

“Ian will see a specialist in London later this week for further assessment, so that we can determine the extent of his injury. Following this we can plan his rehabilitation programme.

“With a busy pre-season fixture schedule coming, we believe it’s best for Aaron to work on a rehabilitation programme at Edgbaston to maximise his chances of being fit for the start of the season.”