Stephen Harmison

The 2005 Ashes had several heroes, but few embodied England’s resurgence quite like Stephen Harmison. A bowler capable of producing spells of extraordinary hostility when everything clicked, he became the spearhead of an attack that finally broke Australia’s long grip on the urn. His journey to that point, however, was far from straightforward.

Harmison’s breakthrough came in 2004, when he took 67 Test wickets, including a remarkable 7 for 12 against the West Indies in Jamaica. He was named both Wisden Cricketer of the Year and ICC Test Player of the Year, recognition of a season in which he established himself among the world’s leading fast bowlers. In the following Ashes, he claimed 17 wickets as England won the series 2-1. His slower ball to completely outfox Michael Clarke remains one of the most memorable deliveries of the series.

The years after the Ashes were less consistent as injuries and loss of form interrupted his career. He continued to be a major figure for Durham and helped them win their first County Championship in 2008. Harmison finished with 226 Test wickets from 63 matches and was awarded an MBE in 2006 for his role in England’s Ashes success. At his best, few bowlers could match the intensity and hostility he brought to the attack.