Keegan Meth

An allrounder who takes the new ball for Matabeleland Tuskers and bats in the lower middler order, Keegan Meth's bowling is his stronger suit and, though he lacks pace, he has the invaluable ability to move the ball both ways through the air. His international debut came at the age of just 18 and though his youthful promise, backed up by some strong performances for the Under-19 side, was clearly in evidence the elevation came too early as Meth was forced to rise rapidly through the ranks because of Zimbabwe's shortage of options. He suffered as a result and was discarded after the 2006 tour of the Caribbean, remaining on the fringes for a while and spending his winters playing club cricket for Phoenix in Ireland.

Meth blossomed under the revamped franchise system, leading Matabeleland Tuskers' attack with increasing proficiency. In 2010-11 he was a key factor in Tuskers' Logan Cup triumph, picking up 54 wickets at 13.31 in the season and almost singlehandedly securing victory over Mountaineers in the final with match figures of 13 for 109. Consistent performances led to a call-up for Zimbabwe's trip to Bangladesh ahead of the 2011 World Cup, but he struggled in unfamiliar conditions and fell out of contention once more. He nevertheless remains one of the most skillful swing bowlers in the country, and in the right conditions would be a valuable asset to Zimbabwe's bowling attack.
Liam Brickhill