Tall and thin, with a good action and an ability to swing the ball away from right-handers, Ian Callen made a spectacular start to his first-class career with 25 wickets in his first three games in 1976-77. He made his Test debut against India the following summer, grabbing 3 for 83 and 3 for 108 in the winning series decider, and that won him selection for the subsequent tour of the Caribbean. But he struggled, taking 11 wickets at over 50 and he didn't play in any of the Tests - indeed, he was never picked again, his chances being further hindered by a back injury. He was picked to tour Pakistan in 1982-83 on the strength of another solid domestic season (he took 31 wickets at 25.45) but didn't play in the Tests. He was offered a contract by Somerset but had to decline because of his weak back. He did play one summer for Ramsbottom in the Lancashire League.
Martin Williamson