dan cullen

Born: 10.04.1984
State: South Australia
Tests: 1
Role: Bowler
Bat: Right-hand
Bowl: Right-arm offbreak
Bat Average: n/a
Bowl Average: 54.00

Dan Cullen is tipped as Shane Warne's long-term replacement as Australia's premier slow bowler.

An offspinner who gives the ball a real tweak and crucially possesses the mystery doosra, Cullen's rise has been dramatic. And he appears to have taken it all in his stride, apparently unfazed by high-profile opponents.

Warne said of Cullen in 2005: "I faced him last year, he has all the toys, he is young and he has got a bit of fire about him.

"He will definitely play for Australia. It is good to see we have a genuine offspinner."

The great man's prophecy came true in Bangladesh where Cullen formed part of a three-pronged spin attack, picking up a maiden Test wicket, and staying on for the one-dayers.

Clearly Australia are unlikely to play three spinners at home against England, and with Warne and Stuart MacGill still comfortably ahead in the pecking order, Cullen may have to wait for his chance to take on the old enemy.

Whether he gets his chance this winter or not, Australia believe they've unearthed Warne's bleached-blond successor. Remember the name.