England profiles

DARREN GOUGH
Right-arm fast bowler; right-hand batsman

FACTFILE DOB: 18.9.1970 Team: Yorkshire Test debut: v New Zealand, Old Trafford 1994 ODI debut: v New Zealand, Edgbaston 1994

Gough took to international cricket almost a decade ago like a duck to water, an entertaining and enthusiastic 24-year-old.

Those same ebullient characteristics remain today despite advancing age and the horrors of a recurring injury.

Many believed Gough would not return to Test cricket after three operations on his right knee, and there was a two-year break after his 56th Test cap, against Australia in 2001, until his recall to the squad.

With a youthful batch of fast bowlers at their disposal, England's selectors saw Gough as adding vital extra experience, a role he fulfilled well during the one-day series.

But they will be keeping figers crossed that the brittle Barnsley bowler can withstand a return to the highest level at the age of 32.