Bowled over

The first British-born Asian player to appear for Yorkshire when he

made his first team debut six summers ago, the fast bowler, from Huddersfield, has become a fine role model as Headingley looks to attract, and inspire, potential players from all backgrounds.

Yet, while some will be disappointed that his selection came at the expense of his team-mate Tim Bresnan, who is now injured, he has achieved Test status on merit – and will provide a much-needed cutting edge to England's attack.

His challenge now is two-fold: to cement his place in the side and then help England defend the Ashes this winter. If Ajmal Shahzad does so, he will have earned his place in history for his cricketing exploits – and shown that there is no barrier to youngsters from all backgrounds fulfilling their sporting dreams if they have the dedication to reach the top.