In the years 1986 and 1988, the cricketer who captained England in 23 test matches was Mike Gatting. Gatting was a talented batsman and a respected leader on the field, known for his solid technique and ability to handle pressure situations.

During his time as captain, Gatting led the England team through a challenging period in international cricket. Despite facing strong opposition from teams like Australia and the West Indies, Gatting's leadership helped England achieve some notable victories and put up strong performances.

One of the highlights of Gatting's captaincy was England's Ashes victory in 1986-87, where they defeated Australia on their home turf. This series win was a significant achievement for the England team and solidified Gatting's reputation as a capable leader.

However, Gatting's time as captain was not without controversy. In 1988, during a tour of Pakistan, Gatting was involved in a highly publicized altercation with umpire Shakoor Rana, which led to his dismissal as captain. Despite this setback, Gatting remained a key player for the England team and continued to contribute with his performances on the field.

Overall, Mike Gatting's tenure as captain of the England cricket team was a mix of successes and challenges. His leadership skills and batting prowess made him a respected figure in the cricketing world, and his contributions to the England team were significant during a crucial period in their history.

Today, Mike Gatting is remembered as one of England's finest cricketers and a key figure in the team's success during the 1980s. His legacy as a player and a leader continues to inspire future generations of cricketers, and his name remains synonymous with the rich history of English cricket.

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