Vikram Solanki

FACTFILE Born: 01/04/76 Right hand batsman; right arm off-spin bowler ODI debut: 23/01/00 v South Africa, Bloemfontein

Solanki's recall for the ICC Champions Trophy has presented him with his third opportunity to establish himself at international level.

Dropped after the 1999-2000 tour to South Africa, he marked his recall last summer with a superb 106 off 108 balls against the same opponents.

But the Worcestershire batsman lost his place again after scores of 10, 0 and 1 in Bangladesh last November.

A stylish stroke player, he could be a major asset if he reproduces his best form and is also an excellent fielder.

It is the fielding factor which may have won him the nod over Robert Key, with chairman of selectors David Graveney admitting they wanted "an increase in mobility".

Solanki played a major part in Worcestershire's C&G Trophy campaign this summer, scoring 127 in their semi-final win over Warwickshire and 115 in a losing cause against Gloucestershire in the final.

And he then batted solidly in the NatWest Challenge matches against India.