Buzzin Cricket

Without doubt, Mark Ramprakash is one of the most talented batsmen England have produced in the last ten years or so. For me, it is a crying shame that he only averaged 27.32 in the 52 test matches he played.

However, his form in the last four years for Surrey has been nothing short of phenomenal. In fact, his first class career is something he can be very, very proud of.  He averages an impressive 53.12 in the County Championship and has scored 99 centuries along the way.

It is, I would guess, unrealistic to suggest that ‘Ramps’ is in line for an England recall now. It is probably too late for him. He is 38-years-old and will unfortunately never get the chance to represent his country again. The argument though is that the former Middlesex man should have been given his chance in the last four years or so, when he has been playing the best cricket of his life.

I believe that as long as Duncan Fletcher was coach of England, Ramprakash was never going to get the opportunity to improve his international record. He just didn’t fancy him for some reason. Maybe the floors Ramprakash showed in his earlier international career put Mr Fletcher off giving him the call. He did after all, let sledging (particularly from the Aussies) get to him far too much. Fletcher may have also looked at the inconsistent test match career of Graham Hick - someone else who didn’t do his talent justice, despite having numerous opportunities to impress.

Had Peter Moores been in charge three years ago, or if Ramprakash was three years younger now, I think he would be in and around the England squad. Moores has already proven that he will give those who perform consistently in the county game a chance. Just ask Ryan Sidebottom. He is someone who failed in a previous international career but is now England’s number one strike bowler.

Like I have said, Ramprakash won’t get into the England side now. You would bet on England to have enough runs in them with the current line up of Strauss, Cook, Vaughan, Pietersen, Bell and Collingwood. Although I do think he deserved another shot at the international game. He was often asked to open the batting when it didn’t suit him and wasn’t exactly part of the most successful England team.

Simply because of his talent, ability and sheer desire to do well, I would have loved it if Mark Ramprakash was given the nod at any time in the past four years. He is a fantastic player to watch when on top of his game and it is a shame that his recent form has been overlooked. I just look forward to him scoring lots more runs for Surrey in the future, of which I am certain he will do.