Clarke and Carter operating smoothly in tandem

Warwickshire 199 for 6 (70 overs). Clarke 50, Carter 43. 321 in front.

Sedate, solid progress with Clarke and Carter operating smoothly in tandem. They have added 93 so far as, just like the first two days of this match, batting appears much more straightforward in the afternoon.

I have just played my small part in Warwickshire's title triumph. Walking round behind the City End, I saw a cluster of people hunting for a ball which Clarke had just struck for four. Concern was growing as, it being the end of the season, all the other balls have been packed away for the winter and the match was looking likely to have to be abandoned, only for the eagle-eyed Halford to spot the missing sphere nestling behind a girder.

Carter is batting like a proper batsman. One big six but utterly patient and watchful. Clarke's maiden 50 for the Bears came from 109 balls with seven fours.