Moore's effort turned around a sorry start for his team

Worcestershire were indebted to Stephen Moore's painstaking century on day one against Warwickshire at Edgbaston.

Moore carried his bat for 109 in five hours to help the visitors total 249, having been reeling on 113-6.

Neil Carter and Jonathan Trott took three wickets each to do the damage for the Bears but new signing Simon Jones struck as they fell to 39-3 at stumps.

Kabir Ali had Ian Westwood lbw, Darren Maddy edged Jones behind and Steve Magoffin bowled Michael Powell (29).

It was quite a turnaround after Worcestershire slumped on a blameless pitch.

Graeme Hick, beginning his 25th county season, was among those to perish playing poor shots, pulling a short ball straight to long-leg.

Moore finally found a worthy partner when Kabir, buoyant after a pre-season century against Essex, batted boldly for 36 in a partnership of 54 in 14 overs.

Gareth Andrew and Magoffin helped the opener reach three figures and the three late blows completed Worcestershire's spirited comeback.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes was delighted with Stephen Moore's opening-day century and told BBC Hereford & Worcester:

"I thought we saw the best innings Stephen Moore has played for us.

"To carry his bat for a hundred in difficult circumstances was a remarkable effort."