Tim Bresnan

Tim Bresnan was earmarked for bigger things at a very young age. There were huge expectations when he became one of the youngest players to represent Yorkshire at an age of 20. However, he took his time to hit the straps. He was called into the England limited overs side in 2006. He performed creditably but there was nothing spectacular to make him an automatic selection. He made his Test debut against West Indies in 2009 but failed to impress.

Injuries to three of England's first choice seamers gave Bresnan an opportunity against Bangladesh in 2009/10. He managed to impress this time bowling tirelessly in trying conditions and emerged the most successful fast bowler on either side. He featured in all of England's games in the World T20 and played a significant part in helping them clinch the title. Earning his spot for the ODI series against Australia that followed soon after, he caught the eye then with some useful contributions lower down the order that helped England win some tight games. He soon got a chance to play a part in the Ashes down under in 2010/11.

He played in the fourth Test at Melbourne and immediately made a significant contribution by picking up six wickets in the game. This included a four wicket haul in the second innings. The win meant that England had managed to retain the Ashes. That has been the highlight of his career so far. He was a part of the England ODI side for the 2011 World Cup in the sub-continent. He managed to grab some attention by picking up a fifer in a high scoring game against India in the group stages.

Injuries began plaguing him thereafter. After a disastrous ODI series against India, Bresnan underwent an elbow surgery then, missing out on the action for several weeks. He had a forgettable summer and lost his place in the squad, troubled with a shoulder injury. He returned back in the team for the Champions Trophy and also played a significant part in England's epic Ashes win at Lords, picking up 4 crucial wickets.

However, the injuries had seriously affected his pace and he struggled against Australia in the winter Ashes. He proved slightly better in the ODI series that followed and was a part of the squad that travelled to West Indies in February 2014. He also featured in a few games at the 2014 World T20. Consequently, he was left out of England's limited-overs squads and wasn't picked for the 2015 World Cup. He did feature in a game against Ireland after the showpiece event but hasn't been picked for the national side ever since.

Age-wise Bresnan still has a bit of time although the early 30s aren't exactly the prime period for a fast bowler. However, he is fit lad and continues to possess a decent pace albeit not as brisk as he used to be. Nevertheless, he can still bowl a heavy ball and has added to his repertoire as a limited-overs bowler. Bresnan's ability to wield the long handle has made him a useful T20 specialist and he has participated in a few celebrated leagues across the globe. A comeback for him cannot be totally ruled out although it remains to be seen if he is indeed keen for it.

By Hariprasad Sadanandan