Martin van Jaarsveld

One of the most consistent scorers in domestic cricket, and a regular member of the South African A side, van Jaarsveld failed to convince when he made the step up against Bangladesh last year.

Date of Birth: 18 June 1974, Transvaal  Test Debut: Against Bangladesh at East London in 2002/03  ODI Debut: Against Bangladesh at Benoni in 2002/03  Bats: Right Hand Bat  Bowls: Right Arm Medium

One of the most consistent scorers in domestic cricket, and a regular member of the South African A side, van Jaarsveld failed to convince when he made the step up against Bangladesh last year.

The selectors have kept faith in his ability, however, and the NatWest Series gives him an opportunity to prove he can lift his game to a new level.

It is not his first visit to England, having scored more than 1,000 runs for Enfield in the Lancashire League in 2002.

He will find the bowling of Darren Gough, Andrew Flintoff, Heath Streak and Andy Blignaut more demanding, but is not a player who lacks self-belief.

"I've matured as a batter and I'm happy with my game. It's not a case of experimenting anymore," van Jaarsveld has been quoted as saying.