MARK BUTCHER Left-hand batsman; right-arm medium bowler

FACTFILE DOB: 23.8.1972 Team: Surrey Test debut: v Australia, Edgbaston, 1997 ODI debut: -

An opening batsman when he began his Test career, Butcher is now established as England's regular number three.

He has been an ever present since regaining his place at the start of the home series against Australia two years ago and should reach the 3,000 Test runs milestone during the summer.

Began 2002 in excellent form with two centuries against Sri Lanka, but struggled in Australia over the winter until he redeemed himself with an innings of 124 in Sydney.

Plays within his limitations and is capable of occupying the crease for long periods, but will want to improve a Test average in the low 30s.

Butcher has something to prove against South Africa, having endured a dismal tour in 1999-2000 which resulted in him being left out of the side for a year and a half.