By Mark Butcher Test batsman

FACTFILE Right-handed batsman; fast-medium bowler Born: 6/12/77 Test debut: v South Africa, Trent Bridge 1998 ODI debut: v Pakistan, Sharjah 1999 Averages: 2005 Ashes

Freddie is probably the most important member of the side apart from the captain.

When he gets going with bat and ball, then England are a very difficult side to play against.

He is so vital because batting at number six and being first-change bowler makes such a difference to the balance of the side.

Everyone knows about his destructive hitting, but he can also dig in and play in a more laid-back manner should the team need it.

And with the ball and his catching, he is an enormously influential member of the bowling set-up.

He is now starting to take more wickets in Test cricket, as well as being somebody who is very economical and can rough up batsmen.

He bowls at good pace and is an aggressive bowler, so is a very useful man to have around.

And he's very inspirational as well. Watching him strut his stuff out in the middle gives everyone a lift - team-mates and fans.

The crowd look to Freddie to lift them, and then they in turn lift the rest of the team with their support.

Averages - 2005 Ashes

Batting
Matches 4 Innings 8 Not out 0
Runs 322 Highest score 102 Average 40.25

Bowling
Overs 160 Maidens 22
Runs 577 Wickets 19 Average 30.36