Australia profiles: Adam Gilchrist

By Dean Jones Former Australia batsman

FACTFILE Left-handed batsman; wicket-keeper Born: 14/11/71 Test debut: v Pakistan, Brisbane 1999 ODI debut: v South Africa, Faridabad 1996 Averages: 2005 Ashes

People mention Gilchrist in the same breath as Bradman in terms of greatness and I think you have to agree.

He's had some critics in Australia over his wicket-keeping, but I can't fault it.

And wouldn't any team in the world just love to have him in their team at number seven?

When he walks to the crease, something happens.

Everybody in the media box - whether you're new or have been around for 60 years - all of a sudden stop typing and start watching.

The great thing about Gilchrist is he can punish bowlers just as much if Australia are 80-5 or 400-5. The situation doesn't worry him - he just goes tora, tora, tora!

He handled the team with aplomb in India when Ricky Ponting was injured. He made it all look so easy, despite the heat and the turning pitches.

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Averages - 2005 Ashes

Batting
Matches 4 Innings 8 Not out 1
Runs 158 Highest score 49 not out Average 22.57

All the averages: England and Australia