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Chris Old was one of the underrated heroes of England's come-from-behind Ashes Test win at Headingley in 1981 that was spurred by Sir Ian Botham. Old only returned a wicket in the game but played a crucial role in England's second innings, holding one end in the ninth wicket stand as Botham added priceless runs. That result was the only instance of a team winning after being made to follow-on in the 20th century. Apart from that famous Test, Old did have a reasonably good career in the longest format, known for his ability to move the ball away late at high pace and accuracy.

While Old's Test career was good, his ODI stint was even more successful and he was a genuine wicket-taker in the shorter format. His ability to tonk the ball in the lower order also made him a better package for 50-overs although he did have two fifties in Tests too. Having burst into the County scene for Yorkshire as a fiery teenager, Old finished with a staggering tally of above 1000 wickets in First-class cricket and over 400 in List A. Injuries often hampered his international career but in the domestic scenario, Old was one of the greats of his era. After retirement, he indulged in a small-time hotel business.

Written by Hariprasad Sadanandan