Warwickshire on brink of first County Championship title since 2012 as Westwood urges Bears to 'stay in the moment'

Warwickshire first team coach Ian Westwood says his title-chasing Bears plan to "stay in the moment" going into this week's final round of County Championship fixtures, with the club standing on the verge of a first outright title since 2012.

Last week's dramatic twist has put Warwickshire in pole position after defeats for both Somerset and Nottinghamshire, coupled with the Bears' third straight away win. That leaves the Midlanders 11 points clear of long-time leaders Somerset and a further four in front of Notts — and all three title-chasing teams are at home for their final fixture.

The Bears host relegation-threatened beaten One-Day Cup finalists Leicestershire at Edgbaston, while Somerset face Surrey and reigning champions Notts play neighbouring Yorkshire. The weather forecast for Birmingham, Taunton and Nottingham looks set fair, except for potential rain on the final scheduled day at Edgbaston.

Westwood, part of the Bears' 2012 title-winning team and now in his second season as first team coach, is remaining calm about the run-in.

"We don't need to do anything differently to how we have been," he told BBC Radio WM. "We'll try and stay in the moment and play what's in front of us."

"We've got a nice group. A mix of home-grown players who know the history of the club and people who have shown some real pride to come and play for us."

Young cleared for last game after visa dash

The key selection issue is whether to recall New Zealand Test opener Will Young after his unexpected visa issue — or stick with Zen Malik, who hit a second-innings half-century to help Sam Hain see the Bears home against Essex at Chelmsford. Young has now been cleared for the final game after a late dash to resolve the visa problem.

Skipper Ed Barnard praised the squad's strength in depth. "For Zen to come back into the team at late notice and play the way he did was really special," the Shrewsbury-born captain said. "It shows what this squad is capable of. We've got such strength in depth."

"Sam Hain has been incredible for us for a long time. We're very fortunate to have him. He just gets the job done. In difficult situations and on difficult pitches, he's always the man. He stands up."

Bamber and Suthar in top form

As well as the vast experience of ex-England all-rounder Chris Woakes, the Bears boast two bowlers in outstanding form. Paceman Ethan Bamber has 60 Championship wickets this season, while India spinner Manav Suthar has claimed 15 scalps in just three matches.

"Manav is perfect for our squad both on and off the pitch," said former Shropshire and Worcestershire all-rounder Barnard. "He comes with loads of energy and wants to bowl all the time. He's that final piece of the puzzle for us, allowing us to control from one end. When we're on a pitch that turns like at Chelmsford, we've got a real attacking threat."

Westwood also lauded Bamber's contribution and character. "Ethan Bamber is an exceptional bowler," he added. "But he's also an exceptional person. And nobody sees how much work he puts in behind the scenes. He hates the praise. But it's nice to see him reap the rewards."

Barnard himself has put in a real captain's effort this season, taking 27 Championship wickets as well as hitting 591 runs.