Kelly Smuts - South Africa - Batsman

Regarded as one of the hottest talents in South African Cricket, Smuts is yet to blossom into the International Cricketer that many believe him to be but he is a terrific genuine all rounder. He first came to prominence in 2007-08 when he was selected for South Africa’s Under 19 team and whilst he made only a limited impact in 3 games it was clear to see the ability he had.

His first class debut for Eastern Province came in October 2009 and he opened the batting making a solid 35 not out and 26. An outstanding season then followed with a string of high scores resulting in promotion to the Warriors Full Franchise Side in December 2010 against the Knights. It really could not have gone much better as Kelly announced himself to Franchise Cricket with a superb unbeaten century off just 145 balls. He is a fluent shot-maker and a very good seamer. Kelly has 4 centuries and 11 fifties to his name with a high score of 102 and best bowling of 5-10.

He then made his way over to the UK for the 1st time in 2014 to play for Northern League side Morecambe C.C. - proved to be an excellent acquisition as he amassed 937 runs at an average of 42.59 and also scalped 53 wickets. This prompted Lancashire League Side Rishton C.C. to secure his signature for 2015 and they were rewarded with some stellar performances as Kelly amassed 1021 runs at an average of 68.06 plus 53 wickets at 15 each, figures that underline what a real talent this guy is and he is sure to be extremely popular for UK League Cricket in 2017.