If the qualities of determination, tenacity and persistence - as well as a considerable degree of natural ability - still count for anything in cricket, then Paul 'Blocker' Wilson rightfully enjoy a fruitful career. While his pedigree was not necessarily been that of the typical first-class cricketer (he decided in 1991 to leave his home city of Newcastle; quit his job as a trainee accountant; and make an unsolicited request for a spot at the Australian Cricket Academy in Adelaide), he displayed a level of resolve which rendered him a more formidable right-arm fast bowler than most. Wilson's thirst for hard work remained unquestioned after that visit to the Academy: he became an integral member of South Australia's team following his interstate debut in 1993-94 and also graduated to the national side for one Test and 11 one-day international appearances in 1997-98. A player with a strong, bustling action and sound temperament, he bowled a methodically consistent line on and just outside off stump, cuts the ball both ways, and extracted disconcerting bounce at times on account of his imposing frame. As opportunities became limited, he moved to Western Australia in 2002-03, and retired at the end of the 2003-04 season when it became clear his contract wouldn't be renewed. he was subsequently appointed as WA's women's coach.
John Polack

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