Bell advances Test claims at the double

Ian Bell soared beyond 200 at Edgbaston today to put another rich coat of gloss on his already sparkling start to the new season.

But Bell was in no mood to stop there. Resuming on 143 this morning, he gave only one difficult chance, in the 180s, before completing his double and guiding the defending champions to a big first innings lead.

The second new ball might have brought his downfall on 183, but Ben Hutton could not cling on to a tough catch at square leg off Nantie Hayward.

Soon enough, though, Bell reached 200, made in six hours from 306 balls and including 27 fours.

Ashley Giles gave him good support with a knock of 62 before a run out finally ended Bell's innings for 231. Warwickshire were all out for 430 soon after, a lead of 132.