Ed Rainsford - Zimbabwe - Bowler

Born on 14 December 1984, Rainsford is a tall right arm fast medium bowler and has a reputation of being one of the quickest bowlers around in Zimbabwe. He was one of the beneficiaries of the strike by the rebel players and made his One Day International debut against Australia.

Rainsford played a few ODI's during that period without making any sort of impression. The continuing player losses meant that he was recalled for the series against Kenya in 2006. He continued to be the leading strike bowler for Zimbabwe with pretty modest returns. He has however added a few weapons, a superb yorker tailing back into the batsmen, particularly the left handers is his main strength.

Rainsford was a late entrant into the game showing very little interest until the age of 11, when his father who also doubled up as a coach brought him some interest into the game.

During the 2006 Zimbabwean tour of Bangladesh, he left the tour early to fulfill a club contract in England with North London side Harefield CC. He took 33 wickets in 17 games, including a spectacular 4 wickets in 4 consecutive balls.

His brightest moment came against Ireland at home in September, 2010 when he picked up 10 wickets in 3 matches which included a career best 5/36 at Harare to help Zimbabwe win the 3 match series 2-1.

An ankle injury ruled out Ed Rainsford from being a part of the Cricket World Cup - 2011.

He has not been able to come back to the international fold even after recuperation and rehabilitation. In his absence, the likes of Chatara and Panyangara grasped their chances with both hands, staking legitimate claims for a lengthy run in the side. He continued to train hard and his efforts were fruitful. The selectors threw him a lifeline when they included him in the national squad for a series against Sri Lanka. It turned out to be a poor outing for him and he had to face the axe. Following year, he hung up his boots. After his retirement, he has taken up commentary assignments for the host broadcaster.

Ed's sister, Yvonne Rainsford, has served the Zimbabwe Womens team.