Davies ‘excited’ to start Bears career

Wicket-keeper/batter Alex Davies joined up with the squad for their first day of winter testing ahead of the 2022 campaign.

The 26-year-old, who joins from Lancashire, is already settling into life as a Bear and the second city.

“It’s been good,” said Davies. “The lads and the club have been really welcoming. Fitness testing as the first day back isn’t always the most enjoyable but it’s good to be here.

“I’ve spent a lot of time around this squad and I know a lot more lads in the squad than I realised in the summer. I’m settling in down at the ground, in Birmingham and once we get fitness done we can crack on with cricket training. 

“The move was announced midseason but it was really important for me to finish the season how I wanted to at Lancashire. It worked out that we were in a good battle at the end of the year but the Bears came out on top and I’m really excited to be here now.”

That battle led to one of the most exciting finishes in County Championship history. Four teams (Warwickshire, Lancashire, Hampshire, Nottinghamshire) were eyeing up the top prize before the Bears grabbed their opportunity on the final day, leaving Davies’ side in second.

The two teams met again at Lord’s for the Bob Willis Trophy a few days later, but the Bears took full control of the contest before completing the double on day four.

“That was obviously part of the reason for joining as I think this squad is at a great stage,” Davies added. “There’s a core of lads at a very similar age – mid 20s – who have got experience, but the greatest years of their career ahead of them. I see a lot of growth from this squad.

“I’m here to play all three formats and create competition within the squad. Ultimately, the best eleven players will play, but I’m not coming here expecting to play. I’m coming here to work hard and show everyone what I’m about.

“The squad depth will really help the team as a whole and the competition can only be good for me.”