Zaheer Khan

Capable of going up to the 90-mph mark, Zaheer on his day can make the best batsmen hop around.

Date of Birth: 7 October 1978, Shrirampur, Maharashtra  Test Debut: Against Bangladesh at Dhaka in 2000/01  ODI Debut: Against Kenya at Nairobi in 2000/01  Bats: Right Hand Bat  Bowls: Left Arm Fast Medium

Zaheer Khan is the tearaway fast bowler India have always desperately wished for. That he is left-handed as well is a bonus. Capable of going up to the 90-mph mark, Zaheer on his day can make the best batsmen hop around.

Though he is India's main strike bowler, he has a long way to yet. A Test average in the mid-30s will not buy him a ticket to any hall of fame. In his favour are his pace and bounce, and the ability to move the ball both ways. With the bat in his hands, he is quite capable to sending the ball very far indeed. As long he does not let his aggression carry him away, the future looks good for Zaheer Khan.

Strengths: Has both bounce and movement; can hit the ball quite well

Weaknesses: An exaggerated jump before delivery; apt to get into verbals with batsmen

What others say: 'For a young man like Zaheer, who is fresh in mind and body, it will be easier to handle competition at the top level. [I feel] he has the potential to handle any situation. However, it is all upto him and no one can do the work for him.' Dennis Lillee, former Australian fast bowler.

'Zaheer Khan, easily one the best fast bowlers in world cricket today.' Dileep Vengsarker, former Indian captain, in his column in Mid Day.