Ashley Giles

In a country where world-class spinners are in scarcity, Giles has become a valuable asset by proving his worth on the international stage.

Date of Birth: 19 March 1973, Chertsey, Surrey  Test Debut: Against South Africa at Manchester in 1998  ODI Debut: Against Australia at The Oval in 1997  Bats: Right Hand Bat  Bowls: Slow Left Arm Orthodox

In a country where world-class spinners are in scarcity, Giles has become a valuable asset by proving his worth on the international stage.

Although his career began as a fast bowler, he was forced to turn to spin due to a back injury and quickly became England's first-choice spinner.

Giles holds a unique record to his name — he is the first to have had India's star batsman Sachin Tendulkar stumped in Test cricket.

He doesn't extract much spin off the pitch, but more than makes up for it with tight line / length and wily variations in speed / flight. A skilled left-armer, he favours coming over the wicket to many batsmen.

His ability to add valuable runs down the order helps him secure a place in England's one-day side as well, and he is an agile fielder for his size.

Last year wasn't the best for Giles as he tried to adjust his run-up and action. He quickly made amends though, returning to his best, as he claimed 18 victims during the Test series in Sri Lanka.

He struggled for wickets on England's tour to the Caribbean in 2004, claiming just two Test victims. But one might also blame the tracks in West Indies for the below par performances.