With a game based on style, timing and immense powers of concentration, Habib, once rejected by Middlesex, became a heavy runscorer in the Leicestershire top order. Primarily a front-foot player with a fluent straight-drive, he can cut too and has the knack of succeeding when his team needs him most - his 114 in the decider at The Oval in 1998 helped Leicestershire win the Championship. Habib's two Tests for England, against New Zealand in 1999, exposed gaps in his technique (not to mention between bat and pad) and less-than-nifty footwork, but his domestic form remained prolific - and he has shone in his brief career with England A. And county coach Jack Birkenshaw continues to sing his praises whenever he gets the chance. However, he left at the end of 2001 for Essex to advance his career, where he averaged a lukewarm 38 in three seasons before being released in October 2004. After struggling to find another county he surprisingly agreed to return to Leicester although again found it tough to hold down a regular spot. He was slowly pushed aside by younger players and opted to retire at the end of the 2006 season. He was appointed Hong Kong's coach, on a three-year contract, in October 2007.
Cricinfo Staff October 2007