sledger
Spanish_Vicente
Bottom line is, this guy should have played for England much more than he did imo, and is a better player than his test average indicates. I more than anyone else openly acknowledge the fact that he suffered from extreme lapses in concentration from time to time, but more often that not he came up with a very helpful innings for England. For example, during the tour of the west indies in 2004 he consistantly came up with very useful innings, that had england been without the result of the matches could well have been different. He scored well up to his last match against South Africa a year later, and were it not for his injury one feels he would have stayed in the side much longer.
I'm not suggesting that he sould be reinstated to the side now (though imo it wouldnt be the worst move in the world), but I think there is a distinct lack of appreciation for all the work he did for england throughout his time in the side, and is much a forgotten man these days. Though he had his obvious faults he was a very decent batsman for mine, and was much more competent than several others who have played for England in his place.
I'm not suggesting that he sould be reinstated to the side now (though imo it wouldnt be the worst move in the world), but I think there is a distinct lack of appreciation for all the work he did for england throughout his time in the side, and is much a forgotten man these days. Though he had his obvious faults he was a very decent batsman for mine, and was much more competent than several others who have played for England in his place.