Early Life and Education

Paul Collingwood was born on May 26, 1976, in Shotley Bridge, County Durham, England. He spent his childhood in County Durham alongside his parents, David and Janet Collingwood, and his brother, Peter.

He attended Blackfyne Comprehensive School, where he showcased his early sporting talent. Although passionate about football, Collingwood eventually chose to focus on cricket, playing for both his school’s Under-13 team and the Shotley Bridge Cricket Club.

Personal Life

In 2005, Paul married Vicky Collingwood in a ceremony held in Cape Town, South Africa. The couple has three daughters: Shannon, Keira, and Hannah Mae, the youngest of whom was born in 2011.

Professional Cricket Career

Collingwood began his professional journey in domestic cricket, rising through the ranks at Durham to establish himself as a key player in the first-class circuit. His consistent performances eventually earned him a place on the national team.

He made his One Day International (ODI) debut in June 2001 against Pakistan, followed by appearances against Australia. Although he had a modest start, he steadily improved and became a reliable middle-order batsman and all-rounder. Collingwood was part of the England squad that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2004 and made his Test debut in 2003 against Sri Lanka. He later played a vital role in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Collingwood represented the Delhi Daredevils and Rajasthan Royals. He was reportedly signed for $275,000 by Delhi Daredevils. An injury prevented him from participating in the fourth season of the IPL.

2010 ICC World Twenty20 and Captaincy

One of the highlights of Collingwood’s career was captaining England to their first-ever ICC tournament victory in the 2010 World Twenty20. His leadership and all-round performance were instrumental in securing the championship, making him the first England captain to win an ICC trophy.