Craig White today revealed how the faith shown in him by the current England regime had inspired his career-best performance in the fourth Test against the West Indies.

Yorkshire all-rounder White claimed five for 57 as the West Indies were dismissed for 172 on the opening day, only for Courtney Walsh to hit back with three late wickets to leave England resuming 67 behind on 105 for five.

White's display, which included the crucial wickets of Wavell Hinds, Brian Lara and Jimmy Adams in 17 deliveries, came only ten weeks after suffering a mysterious blackout near his Scarborough home which put his career in jeopardy.

But since that incident White has changed his outlook on life, becoming more philosophical, and the continuing faith of England's management has allowed him to become more relaxed and produce his best international performance.

"I feel part of the team now and that helps," said White. "I know the people around me rate me as a cricketer and they want me on the team. That helps with confidence and your performance.

"Three months ago I was contemplating life without cricket and to come out in a Test and take five wickets for your country is incredible."

But while yesterday was a treasured moment for White, West Indian paceman Curtly Ambrose remained unaffected, despite becoming only the fifth bowler in history to take 400 Test wickets by removing openers Marcus Trescothick and Michael Atherton.

"It's always a nice feeling to take wickets in Test cricket, whether it's the first one or the 400th, and I'm just happy it's all over and done with," he said.