Lee Daggett made an impressive claim for a first-team place with a devastating bowling performance on the first day of Warwickshire's two-day friendly against Oxford UCCE in The Parks.
Daggett, a 23-year-old seamer who was deemed surplus to requirements at Lancashire, tore into the hosts with six for 31 as the students were dismissed for just 91.
Bowling with good control and at a decent pace, he struck with his first delivery and soon made a mockery of Oxford's decision to bat.
It is not the first time Daggett has started the season with a bang. In 2004 he took eight for 94 in the first innings for Durham UCCE against Durham, but injury and a lack of opportunity have since hampered him. Here, however, he made full use of a slow pitch offering a little help to the bowlers and must now have a great chance of breaking into the first team.
Nick Warren (two for 24) bowled with good pace, while there were also wickets for Heath Streak (one for five) and Tim Groenwald (one for 16).
To enhance Warwickshire's day further, Oxford's top scorer was Luke Parker (28), who will be joining the Bears' squad after the university term. Stephen Moreton, who is also expected to figure for Warwickshire's seconds, made five, while Mali Richards (son of Viv) was dismissed for a duck. Worcestershire player Josh Knappett made one.
In reply Warwickshire soon slipped to 36 for two. Mark Wagh was beaten for pace and clean bowled for nine, before Ian Westwood was drawn into an edge to the keeper for six.
Nick Knight (101*, 15 fours) and Jim Troughton (88*, 14 fours and a six) then put together an unbroken stand of 182 for the third wicket, with the pair relishing the opportunity to find some form against a relatively gentle attack. Warwickshire reached stumps on 218 for two; a lead of 127. n Warwickshire have recruited two promising 14-year-olds for their Academy.
Jonathan Webb is a right-handed batsman who has represented the Warwickshire and the Midland under-13 teams and also plays for Olton.
Richard Kimberlin is a left-arm seamer who has been in the Shropshire Academy and plays for Penn. His addition is particularly significant as it illustrates the strengthening bond between Warwickshire and the minor counties.
Academy Director Richard Cox said: "We have been eager to strengthen our links with the minor counties. Signing Richard sends a message to all youngsters that, if you are good enough, we will take notice. We are keen to expand on these ties with nearby Staffordshire and Herefordshire, too."
