Barry Wood

Barry Wood was a determined and gutsy opening batsman who never shirked from a challenge. Despite his lack of inches (he was 5' 6") he was a good hooker and puller, but was cast in the role of understudy to a succession of openers and in his 12 Tests spread over seven seasons, he never played more than three in a row. He made 90 on debut against Australia in 1972, but struggled in India and Pakistan in 1972-73, and didn't get another chance until he returned to side against New Zealand in 1974-75 three days after a 63-hour flight from the Caribbean - unsurprisingly, he failed in both Tests. He was brought back in 1975 to bolster an England side battered by Lillee and Thomson, and did all that was asked of him. He was again recalled for one Test at Lord's in 1976, and made a final outing against Pakistan in 1978. He was a combatative performer for Lancashire for more than a decade, and in his twilight years captained Derbyshire. As late as 1988, aged 45, he was still regularly appearing for Cheshire. His bowling - medium-pace swing - was more effective than it appeared, especially in the one-day game where he became a real force. His outstanding fielding only added to his allround worth.
Martin Williamson