Resourceful Colly reaches landmark
His first four appearances were so disappointing that in another, more successful side, he may have been forced to wait a very long time before being invited back for another go.
But this was the England team in 2001, not exactly a powerhouse of one-day international cricket, and sure enough when later that year Paul Collingwood of Durham found himself on the plane.
Deliverance came in the first match in Harare - a maiden wicket (thanks to a James Foster stumping) and an important innings of 36 in what was a tricky run-chase. The seed for further success was sown, and eight years on he has become the most capped player for England in one-day internationals.
After the solemn realisation at the age of 12 that I might not be good enough to play cricket for England I decided that the next best thing, writing about cricket, would have to suffice as a career. That's what I've been doing for the 91Èȱ¬ Sport website since 2001, in which time the sport has changed immensely. You can also follow me on .
