Craig Neil Miles is an English cricket player hailing from Gloucestershire, known for his promising fast-bowling abilities. Standing tall at 6ft 4ins, Miles possesses the physical attributes of a modern-day paceman, complemented by his ability to hit the deck and extract movement off the pitch.
Miles burst onto the professional cricket scene at a tender age of 16, when he was called upon to make his debut for Gloucestershire during a Championship match against Northamptonshire in 2011. Despite his inexperience, Miles showcased his potential and didn’t disappoint, hinting at the talent that lay within him.
In the years that followed, Miles matured both physically and mentally, becoming a key component of Gloucestershire’s bowling attack. Mark Alleyne, the former Gloucestershire captain who led the county to multiple one-day titles, lauded Miles as a player who possessed the capabilities to represent England. Comparisons were drawn between Miles and a young Stuart Broad, noting their similar physical builds and bowling styles.
To enhance his chances of reaching international recognition, Miles aimed to increase his pace while maintaining accuracy and control. He took part in the ECB’s Potential England Performance Programme during the winter of 2013-14, but an unfortunate back injury limited his progress during the subsequent season. However, Miles bounced back, showcasing his skill and determination as he returned to the field to claim 18 wickets at an impressive average of 19.88 in the remaining four Championship matches of the year.
The 2015 season proved to be a milestone for Miles as he achieved notable performances, particularly against a strong Lancashire side where he registered a match analysis of 10 for 121. Furthermore, he delivered a standout performance against Northamptonshire, tallying figures of 6 for 63, which led to his inclusion in the EPP fast-bowling camp and earned him a place on the shortlist for the PCA’s breakthrough player.
Miles continued to impress with his consistent performances, culminating in 52 Championship wickets for Gloucestershire in 2016. During that season, he also secured his first hat-trick, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across all formats of the game.
In 2018, Miles made a significant career move by transferring from Gloucestershire to Warwickshire, seeking opportunities to compete in Division One of the Championship. Although this decision dashed local hopes of seeing him win England honors while representing his home county, it presented him with the chance to fulfill his international ambitions in a new environment.
Miles’ contribution to Warwickshire’s success was evident in their County Championship and Bob Willis Trophy double in 2021. With 37 wickets at an impressive average of 21.81, he played a crucial role in their triumph, including a five-for in the first innings of the victory over Lancashire at Lord’s.
While his first-class appearances were limited in 2022, Miles made a significant impact during the white-ball campaign. He delivered a career-best haul of 16 wickets in the T20 Blast, further highlighting his all-round abilities as a talented cricketer.
Throughout his career, Miles has showcased his versatility as a bowler, adapting to various formats and consistently delivering match-winning performances. With his height, skill, and determination, he continues to be regarded as a rising star in English cricket, widely recognized for his potential to represent his country on the international stage.
