Belter. On the BBC comms shortly. And yes, I am going to express some thoughts on the Kookaburra experiment. Appreciate all the views expressed, for and against. They’ve been very helpful.

So… and this is a complete hypothetical… *if* the Kookaburra experiment meant your county suffered but England won the Ashes in Aus, would you be happier?

Spoke to Fynn Hudson-Prentice, who took two in two for Sussex at Grace Road, after play today and he suggested exactly this. That should, in theory at least, develop the skills of players but it requires patience and some long-term thinking.

Lots of critics of the Kookaburra ball and that’s understandable. A couple of observations. It’s less forgiving of poor overs or spells and there’s a much smaller margin for error. Bowlers need to have serious pace, control, accuracy and/or good plans. #countychampionship

As expected, Ben Stokes is at Edgbaston but won’t play. But…. Scotty Boland is in the Durham XI! He’ll get an early chance with the familiar Kookaburra. Durham have won the toss and bowl first v Warks. On the BBC shortly! #countychampionship

Have now called 2 Worcestershire CC games featuring Kashif Ali, or should I I say Cash-in Ali. Scores of 93, 110 & 133 don’t convey the sheer class of his stroke play. Early days, but he’s a real joy to watch. #CountyChampionship

I love this!

Kashif Ali is doing it again…

For the third straight day we have some sunshine at Edgbaston. 2 early wicket ls as Mousley departs for 62, followed by Burgess. The wind would blow an elephant off course. Would love your company on BBC online!

I'm here at Edgbaston covering the Bears v Pears clash with Brian Halford and Melinda Farrell. Join us live on air at 10.55.

Huge thanks to all those who sent such positive and supportive messages today. Each one is greatly appreciated. It’s lovely to be back on the #CountyChampionship circuit. ❤️

Kashif Ali just spoke to us after making his superb maiden century. So much emotion evident. It’s a reminder a simple stat can represent so much hard work, disappointments, determination and faith. What an impressive young man. And a credit to SACA.

Glorious day at Edgbaston Stadium for the start of the Championship! What are you all moaning about? Live on BBC page and for at least a while on BBC Sports extra soon.

Mayank Yadav isn't just quick.

He has 8-0-41-6. One wicket behind Purple Cap despite playing only twice.

All six are top-order bats including five Test cricketers, including four who played Test cricket this year.

29 dot balls out of 48. The 17 today are this season’s record.

This would be fun at Perth stadium, eh? 👀 #BGT

Ben Stokes has clearly made the best decision for his body and his Test career and England need to find ways to win without him. But gosh, it’s going to be so strange not watching him in a World Cup.

I have to stop watching this and do something productive with my day.

As always, there’s a *lot* happening in Pakistan cricket. Spoke with the current Test captain about the former Test captain who’s now the T20 captain. Again.

Had a brilliant chat with Shan Masood for the long read in this month’s mag. Discussed Yorkshire, Pakistan, chaos, grief, captaincy, handling abuse, mental health, playing India and… Oppenheimer and Batman! Really enjoyed doing this one. Details for the mag below. 👇🏻

Hello, old friend…