"Barge Arse", as Phil Alley is known, is the tallest first-class cricketer in Australia. He gains disconcerting boucne and pace with his left arm quicks.

Nominated by Allan Border as an outstanding prospect before a debilitating back injury ruled him out in 1995-96, Alley is on the comeback road.

Originating from Orange, he commenced his cricketing career at the age of 12 in the ACT with the Tuggeranong club, and possesses the main goals of longevity and international representation in his career.

Alley's favourite ground is the Adelaide Oval. He snared his first first-class wicket (bowling Steve Small) there and usually bowls at his best on the picturesque ground.

He says that a "willingness to be poor while striving to reach dreams" is an essential part of embarking upon a "professional cricket career".

Alley believes that children should take up the game simply for enjoyment.

His sister is "Delta" from the TV series "Gladiators".

Source: New South Wales Cricket Association (nswca.cricket.org)