Geraint Jones

FACTFILE Born: 14/07/76 Right hand batsman; wicket-keeper ODI debut: 27/06/04 v West Indies, Trent Bridge

Having understudied Chris Read through tours for most of the winter, Jones was finally given his chance in the last Test in the West Indies in April.

His superior batting ability was the primary reason for his elevation.

And he justified the selectors' faith by scoring a maiden Test century against New Zealand at Headingley.

It convinced them to bring him into the one-day set-up, a somewhat harsh decision as Read's average in domestic one-day cricket is higher.

Jones was sent in at number three in his debut match against West Indies at Trent Bridge and responded with 35 off 45 balls, including seven fours.

He failed in the next game and had little chance to shine thereafter in the NatWest Series after being demoted to number seven, the position he occupies in the Test side.

The Kent wicket-keeper has done enough, however, to secure an extended run in the side and although his glove work is sometimes untidy, he does not miss much when an edge comes his way.