DOB:23.8.72 County:Surrey Test debut: v Australia, Edgbaston 1997 Left hand batsman, right arm medium pace swing bowler

The first half of the summer was a triumph on two levels for Butcher as he made 105 and 123 against Sri Lanka as England secured a 2-0 series win.

His efforts were all the more laudable he was troubled by a knee problem, but surgery has cleared that up and he is looking for more big scores against India.

Having batted at number three for much of the time since he was recalled to the side against Australia last summer, Butcher is set to resume his normal role as opener with Marcus Trescothick injured.

Dropped following the 1999-2000 tour to South Africa, Butcher returned an older and wiser player against Australia last summer.

His match-winning innings of 173 not out at Headingley was England's highlight of the Ashes series and he also played with skill and determination to make 51 and 92 in India during the winter.