His name may sound South African, but Kyle Coetzer was, in fact, born in Aberdeen, Scotland. Coetzer has been part of Scotland's set-up since he played in the European Under-15 Championship in 1999, but since signing for Durham in 2005 he has split his loyalties between county and country.

Starting the summer by hitting his maiden first-class hundred, 153 not out from just 150 balls against Durham UCCE, Coetzer enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2007, playing a key role in Durham's success. He finished the season with an average of 38 as Durham finished second in the County Championship, while he also struck a 74-ball 61 against Hampshire at Lord's as Durham secured their first ever silverware in the Friends Provident Trophy.

However, Coetzer proved unable to fulfil his early promise at Durham. In 2011, a move to Northants - initially on loan - rejuvenated him, and he emerged as an important member of their side. Coetzer is also established as a crucial member of the Scotland top order. He was Scotland's leading run scorer at the 2009 World Twenty20, with 75 runs at 37.50 against New Zealand and South Africa. In 2013 he registered his maiden ODI century, 133, against Afghanistan.

ESPNcricinfostaff - April 2013