Derby v Warwick last day

What had been a fascinating struggle for ascendancy over three days finally ended in a draw with the wicket the winner.

Warwickshire are widely tipped to return to Division 1 and on this showing Derbyshire will push them hard. Although the visitors got one more point than us, courtesy of making 300 in the first innings, Derbyshire's excellent second innings augured well for the season ahead.

Although some may criticise him, Rikki Clarke was absolutely right in delaying his declaration until Freddie Klokker had his maiden century. The Dane could easily go on from this and we are very lucky to have two such able wicketkeeper/batsmen as James Pipe and Fred. With Tom Poynton an excellent talent in the Academy, we've no worries in this role for years to come.

It was an excellent game for Jon Clare, who continues to bowl with control and also take wickets, and looks a better batsman with every game. Two half-centuries in this game, one of them unbeaten, suggest a young player with a tremendous future.

Nayan Doshi also bowled with control and no little menace, and would appear a better spinner than the man he replaced, Ant Botha, on this showing. Charl Langeveldt also bowled with hostility and accuracy and will be a fine asset to the side.

We now have a few days to recharge batteries, treat various injuries and then make some tough decisions for the next Championship game at Glamorgan. The wickets in Wales are generally responsive to spin, and Glamorgan are almost certain to play both Cosker and Croft. This is a game where Jake Needham may come in with Greg Smith apparently out for a while yet. This would mean one of the seamers dropping out, unless Clarke's thumb injury means he plays as a batsman only. Clare would appear to be the most likely to be rested, but after such a fine match it would be a shame for the talented youngster.

We have more competition for places than we have had for some time, and John Morris will earn his money in picking the right eleven for the Welshmen.

For what its worth, I'll tell you what my team would be over the next couple of days.