Following the departure of Marcus Trescothick Paul Collingwood looks certain to play in the ashes solving the selector’s problem of choosing 2 out of Cook, Collingwood and Bell.

A gritty hard working batsman, exemplary fielder and handy medium pacer many saw Collingwood as a jack of all trades who wasn’t up to test standard but this all changed in the 3rd test against Pakistan in Pakistan where he made 96 and 80 his first test century was a magnificent 134* against India an showed that he was indeed up to the task.

In his last ten tests he has averaged 48 to go alongside his increasing career average of 41 and against Pakistan finally took fist first test wicket on his 432nd ball not an accurate reflection on his bowling talent, his fielding is outstanding and his versatility makes him a handy member of any team.

However many are still wondering about how he will perform in Australia on the bouncier wickets as his technique seems to show a weakness against the rising ball. His technique may not be perfect but he has shown time and again the resilience to persevere and will want to continue in his good form to try and cement a test place.

Adam Greenup