If Ian Bell retired before the Ashes he would boast the highest average in Test cricket history of 297.
That average is based on one innings against the West Indies of 70, at the Oval last year, and two innings against Bangladesh this year, of 65* at Lord's and 162* at Chester-le-Street.
So accomplished did Bell look in each of the knocks, admittedly against weak bowling attacks, that dropping him in favour of Graham Thorpe for the 1st Test was never going to be an issue. Instead, the last batting slot was a slug out between Kevin Pietersen and Thorpe.
The Warwickshire batsman is a diminutive player with a neat, compact technique and quick footwork. In manner at the crease he most resembles Mike Atherton, in his tenacious attitude as much as his defensive technique. Unlike Iron Mike, though, he scores runs at a deceptively quick tempo.
During the innings of 162* against Bangladesh he achieved the rare feat of a hundred before lunch and demonstrated dominant strokeplay all around the wicket.
Bell has always had a precocious talent and at the age of 17, was described by Mike Gatting as the best young player he had ever seen when he joined the England u19 squad.
Now 23, he looks sure to be the mainstay of the England middle-order for the next 10 years, probably alongside the vastly different Pietersen.
First of all, comes the challenge of Australia and, despite his vast talent and sound technique, it will be an immense test for such an inexperienced player.
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Geoff Boycott's verdict: