Fat he may be, and a smoker and serial philanderer etc etc... but he's the finest bowler of all time and a great character. I shall miss him desperately when he retires, but it will be some consolation that England will probably dominate the game for 10 years unless the Aussies manage to conjure up a clone.

For the life of me I can't understand why every youngster in the land isn't trying to copy that wristy magic of his. I was a half-decent medium pacer back in the 60's and remember trying to bowl leg spin out of the back of my hand during friendly games. The only danger I managed to inflict with this action was to spectators and fielders.

Warney - we love you mate - but for Christ's sake have a bad day or two in your last UK ashes match (especially if we have to bat 1st)