Warwickshire

'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' the 2010 season was certainly a tale of two formats for Warwickshire. Semi-finalists in the Twenty20 cup (for the sixth time in seven years) and Pro40 champions the Bears had a poor championship run, saved from the drop only by some spirited performances in the final stages of the competition.

When all is taken into consideration director of cricket Ashley Giles and his men can look back on the year with pride. Mid way through the season a slip on all fronts looked imminent, however a true fighting spirit showed that Warwickshire had the ability to come through and perform at the right time. This renaissance was due largely to the efforts of overseas signing Imran Tahir, great all round performances from Neil Carter and the fantastic form of Ian Bell, who did not let a foot injury and time out of the game affect his form. But it would be unfair to say that individual performances alone saved Warwickshire. Cricket is often referred to as a team game for individuals, but that largely neglects the fact that 11 men take the field in every game. The development of a strong and productive team ethic has shown what can be achieved under pressure when a unit works together and puts in united performances.

Top of the Order - Ian Westwood

Batting was perhaps the greatest area of concern at Edgbaston this summer and that the highest run scorer averaged only 25.92 and did not reach three figures in any cricket points to a problem. Nevertheless the 726 runs scored by the captain have been of great value at the top of the order. As skipper Westwood will look to use this as a platform and really lead his men by example, hopefully finally attaining the thousand season runs which are the bench mark of a good summer, a goal which thus far has alluded him.

Best Bowling - Imran Tahir

Poached from Hampshire for one season only Tahir has been the difference between success and failure for Warwickshire. A five wicket haul in the Lord's final capped off an excellent summer with the ball. A tally of 56 wickets at 24.57 helped secure first division safety and with limited overs skill it is little surprise that the Pakistan born leg spinner is being targeted by his adopted home nation of South Africa for international honours. He will leave a sizable void at Edgbaston when he returns to the Rose Bowl next season, his contribution cannot be ignored.

Rising Star - Chris Woakes

The 21 year old seamer continues to impress and it can only be a matter of time before a full test cap is added to honours of England Lions and Under 19 appearances. A good season with the ball, Woakes passed the fifty wicket marker with 54 at a miserly 21.57. A bright future almost certainly beacons.

A Year to Forget - Tim Ambrose

Initially rested and then dropped mid way through the season the diminutive keeper had a poor run all round. Claims that the drop caused him to clear his locker at Edgbaston and the fact that he is now out of contract have fueled speculation that the former England player will not be with Warwickshire next season. This would be unfortunate for Ambrose. Having left Sussex in search of greater prospects for first team cricket a career blossomed and the England keeper's spot ensued. After a run of ten games he was replaced by former team mate Matthew Prior, a more viable prospect with the bat. Amborse was given one more chance at the top level and did not waste the opportunity, keeping well and notching up an undefeated 76. This was not enough to secure greater involvement with the national side. Omitted by all three of the major teams he has turned out for Ambrose has been unlucky. He will hope that next season, wherever he may be playing, brings greater fortune and marks the beginning of a prolonged and established run.

Star Player - Neil Carter

The South African has certainly lived up to his all rounder billing in 2010 and the PCA 'Most Valuable Player' award has been well earned. Opening both the batting and the bowling in the limited overs game he was instrumental in the success the side experienced there. First class cricket too was highly profitable. His 617 runs and 51 wickets illustrate a man very much at the top of his game. A great performance from a very determined and hard working cricketer.