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An overview of Ian Bell's career
Ian Ronald Bell MBE (born 11 April 1982) is an English former cricketer who played international cricket in all formats for the England cricket team and Warwickshire county cricket club.
Bell was a right-handed batsman who was known for his elegant cover drive and his ability to score runs in all conditions.
He was a key member of the England team that won the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2019 Cricket World Cup.
Bell's early career
Bell was born in Coventry, Warwickshire, and began playing cricket at a young age.
He made his first-class debut for Warwickshire in 2000 at the age of 18.
He quickly established himself as a talented batsman, and was called up to the England Under-19 team in 2001.
Bell's international career
Bell made his international debut for England in a Twenty20 International against Australia in 2005.
He made his Test debut against Bangladesh in 2006, and his One Day International debut against the Netherlands in 2007.
Bell went on to play 118 Tests, 161 ODIs, and 8 T20Is for England.
Bell's retirement
Bell announced his retirement from international cricket in 2015.
He continued to play for Warwickshire until the end of the 2020 domestic season.
Bell is widely regarded as one of England's greatest ever batsmen.
Bell's legacy
Bell was a gifted batsman who was admired by fans and fellow players alike.
He was a key member of the England team that won the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2019 Cricket World Cup.
Bell's elegant cover drive was one of the most aesthetically pleasing shots in the game.