Full name John James Whitaker

Born May 5, 1962, Skipton, Yorkshire

Current age 47 years 66 days

Major teams England, Leicestershire

Batting style Right-hand bat

Bowling style Right-arm offbreak

James Whitaker was a member of England's Ashes-winning side in 1986-87. He made his one appearance at Adelaide, when Ian Botham was injured, and managed 11 before falling to Bruce Reid. With David Gower and Phil DeFreitas also playing, England included three Leicestershire players for the first time. He made the trip on the back of 1526 runs at 66.34 in 1986 - despite having bones broken in both hands by Malcolm Marshall during the summer. Whitaker remained a one-club man, and led Leicester to the County Championship in 1996 and 1998. After being forced to retire with a leg injury he had a spell as general manager at Grace Road before taking on the role of director of cricket. His 22-year association with the club ended in 2005 when they announced a new coaching structure and Whitaker left his director post. Three years later, however, he was give a part-time selectorial role with England under Geoff Miller, who was named David Graveney's successor in January 2008.
Martin Williamson January 2008

Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1987

Jul 4, 2009

Andrew Strauss, Geoff Miller and James Whitaker watch the England Lions take on Australia

© Getty Images

Apr 15, 2009

Peter Willey (far right) applauds his son's fifty on debut for Northamptonshire

© Getty Images

Apr 10, 2002

James Whitaker ; thumbnail portrait 2002

© Cricinfo Ltd

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