WORCESTERSHIRE'S cricketers returned to the field yesterday with a 12 vs 13 a side warm-up match against local rivals Warwickshire.

The game, being played in-front of spectators at Edgbaston, saw Warwickshire elect to bat first in chilly conditions.

The game is being used as a pilot for the return of spectators to cricket, with a select few Warwickshire members being allowed in for the first time.

Worcestershire put out a strong side for the game featuring new signing Jake Libby and hard-hitting all-rounder Ross Whiteley, but recent signing Gareth Roderick was not named in the XI to take part in the match.

Day one proved slow going for the Worcestershire bowlers, with the Bears reaching 93-0 at lunch.

Opener Rob Yates was 38 not-out at lunch, with Will Rhodes retiring on 41 to give Sam Hain a go, the latter reaching 13 not-out by lunch on day one.

The afternoon session proved even tougher, with no breakthrough coming as Warwickshire passed 200 without loss.

Sam Hain made a half century along with England legend Ian Bell, who made his return to the side after missing large parts of last season with a knee injury.

The pair retired at tea, leaving Matt Lamb and wicketkeeper Michael Burgess to see out the evening session.

The teams were as follows: Worcestershire picked 13 men while Warwickshire went in with 12 for the first day.

Oliver Hannon-Dalby, Henry Brookes and Ethan Brooks will be joining the squad later in the game.

You can follow the progress and view video highlights by going to www.wccc.co.uk/match-centre/