Nasser Hussain (Capt.)

Born: 28.03.68
Tests: 47
Runs: 2974 (39.13)
Wickets: 0
One-day internationals: 42
Runs: 933 (26.65)
Wickets: 0

After taking over the captaincy from Alec Stewart in 1999, The Essex batsman has established himself as a key figure. He has earned the respect of the players and appears to be approaching something like his peak form. Success could hinge on his tactical ability this summer, but, more significantly, England will look to Hussain for inspiration and strength when the going gets tough, as undoubtedly it will.

Michael Atherton

Born: 23.03.68
Tests: 95
Runs: 6403 (37.88)
Wickets: 2
One-day internationals: 54
Runs: 1591 (35.11)
Wickets: 0

Appointed England captain in 1993, Atherton went on to lead his country a record 53 times and despite being replaced by Hussain last year, his experience and leadership qualities remain crucial to England's hopes of success. The Yorkshire batsman will be keen to add to his tally of 13 Test centuries this summer. His strengths are concentration, patience, and bravery. His wicket will be a priority for visiting bowlers.

Mark Ramprakash

Born: 05.09.69
Tests: 38
Runs: 1701 (27.88)
Wickets: 4
One-day internationals: 13
Runs: 265 (26.50)
Wickets: 0

Topped England's Test averages in the West Indies in 1998, with 266 runs at an average of 66.5. Will open with Athers in the absence of Michael Vaughan. Needs to impress to cement his place but remains suspect against fast bowling.

Graeme Hick

Born: 23.05.66
Tests: 54
Runs: 3005 (34.14)
Wickets: 22
One-day internationals: 105
Runs: 3513 (38.60)
Wickets: 28

The Zimbabwean born Worcestershire star is, on his day, one of the best attacking batsmen in the world. A member of the 1987 World Cup squad, Hick is hugely-talented but often frustrated. He is back on international duty after showing great form for his club since the start of the domestic season.

Born: 08.04.63
Tests: 95
Runs: 6525 (40.78)
Wickets: 0
One-day internationals: 105
Runs: 3378 (30.16)
Wickets: 0

The leading run-scorer in Test cricket in the 1990's will once again will be asked to act as an all-rounder, combining wicket keeping and holding together a vunerable batting line-up. It's a vital role, fraught with pressure, but Stewart is used to it.

Nick Knight

Born: 28.11.69
Tests: 12
Runs: 585 (27.85)
Wickets: 0
One-day internationals: 53
Runs: 1923 (40.06)
Wickets: 0

Became a regular part of England's one-day sides after joining Warwickshire from Essex in 1995. Last Test came in the successful series against South Africa in 1998. Knight will bat at number six, a position where he made his only Test century against the West Indies.

Andy Flintoff

Born: 06.12.77
Tests: 6
Runs: 172 (19.11)
Wickets: 6
One-day internationals: 9
Runs: 100 (16.66)
Wickets: 7

Big future in the game predicted for this powerful striker of the ball. A very quick bowler as well. Flintoff should cause both the visitors problems, but still has a lot to prove this summer. One to watch.

Andy Caddick

Born: 21.11.68
Tests: 30
Runs: 552 (12.42)
Wickets: 110
One-day internationals: 18
Runs: 67 (16.75)
Wickets: 26

Caddick has consistently been among the best bowlers in County cricket, but a combination of injuries and conflicts with the England management have restricted the 6ft 6in seamer to just 30 Tests. He and Darren Gough will form the spearhead of England's attack this summer.

Darren Gough

Born: 18.09.70
Tests: 36
Runs: 532 (11.82)
Wickets: 139
One-day internationals: 74
Runs: 330 (10.96)
Wickets: 124

Immensely talented, but his career has been disrupted with injuries. When fully fit, Gough remains one of the most dangerous fast-bowlers in the world. Has the added responsibility this summer with injuries to other key bowlers. Critical time for a player who needs a run of good fortune more than anything else.

Craig White

Born: 16.12.69
Tests: 8
Runs: 166 (13.83)
Wickets: 11
One-day internationals: 23
Runs: 280 (15.55)
Wickets: 29

Born in Yorkshire but raised in Australia, White made his Test debut almost six years ago. Something of a surprise choice to be handed a central contract, and will be competing with Flintoff for an all-rounder's spot. Massive potential, but needs to live up to it this summer.

Steve Harmison

Born: 23.10.78
Tests: 0
Runs: 0
Wickets: 0
One-day internationals: 0
Runs: 0
Wickets: 0

A good start to the domestic season for the quickest of England's promising young bowlers. But Harmison has more than his fair share of critics. Impressive during the England A Tour this winter but still has it all to do following his first England call-up this week.

Ed Giddins

Born: 20.07.71
Tests: 1
Runs: 0
Wickets: 4
One-day internationals: 0
Runs: 0
Wickets: 0

Suspended for having traces of cocaine in 1996, Giddins has worked exceptionally hard to win back the trust of the selectors. Trademark late swing at a good pace with some bounce will test the visiting batsmen, especially the West Indies. Could this be the Cinderella story of the summer?