Ian Bell misses out on hundred in final First-class innings
England batsman Ian Bell staged a near-perfect appearance in his final First-class match. Representing Warwickshire in the final final group-stage Bob Willis fixture, the 38-year-old was dismissed for 90 in the second innings. Notably, Bell top-scored in the first innings as well, having put up a well-compiled 50 (116). Despite missing out on a ton, Bell signed off from First-class cricket in style.
How has the match panned out so far?
Warwickshire were bundled out for 186 after they were put into bat by Glamorgan. As mentioned, Bell led the runs tally with a 116-ball 50. In reply, Glamorgan could claim a slender lead by tallying 203. Bell's heroics (90) yet again helped Warwickshire as they declared on 347/7 in the second innings. Now, Glamorgan require 322 runs to win with one day to go.
The second finalists yet to be decided
The five-day final at Lord's, starting September 23, has now been narrowed down to just three counties. Reigning county champions Essex, who have already gained qualification, will play the winners of the evenly-poised game between Worcestershire and Somerset.
Bell was given a guard of honor
During the match, Ian Bell was given a guard of honor by his opponents as he emerged for his 524th and final First-class innings. Notably, he fell short by 10 runs to register his 58th century in the format. Nevertheless, Bell will now represent the Bears in the T20 Blast before calling time on an illustrious professional career.
Bell set to retire at the end of season
Last week, Bell announced that he will retire from professional cricket at the end of the ongoing season. He made his debut for England in 2004 and last played an international five years ago. However, he has been an integral part of Warwickshire in County cricket ever since. This decision came a few months after Bell signed a year's extension with the English club.
Bell made the announcement on Twitter
A look at his phenomenal career
Ian Bell is the fourth-highest run-getter from England in international cricket. In a career spanning over a decade, he amassed 13,331 runs from 287 internationals at 40.27. He also has a record 26 hundreds to his name. Interestingly, Bell has been part of five Ashes-winning sides and owns 22 Test tons. He is a veteran of 20,300 First-class runs with best score of 262*.
