The News Letter's Alistair Bushe identifies six young NCU players (in no particular order) who have big years ahead of them in 2010. First up is Keith Allen of Waringstown CC.
The Bushe Verdict
'Three years ago Keith Allen appeared to be the next big thing at Waringstown. A batting all-rounder, he turned heads across the NCU with a powerful display of hitting against Instonians in a losing cause in a Clubturf Ulster Cup semi-final.
He meted out punishment to Andrew White among others that day, but since then has gone off the radar. He missed the entire 2009 season after undergoing surgery but is back to fitness in 2010. This could be his make or break season.'
Keith Allen may have missed all of the 2009 season through injury but Cover Point is predicting a big season for the medical student who will turn 20 in July. He is one of Cover Point's 'Six to Watch' from the NCU for 2010 and beyond.
PROFILE: KEITH ALLEN
Date of Birth: 16/07/1990
Club - Waringstown CC
Bats - Right Hand Bat
Bowls - Right Arm Medium
INTERVIEW
CP:When did you start to play cricket?
KA: When I was 4 years old.
CP: What sparked your interest in the game?
KA: My father was a senior league cricketer with Donemana and Laurelvale, so it was instilled in me from an early age.
CP: Favourite cricketer and why?
KA: Andrew Flintoff because he has the ability to inspire and change games, whilst still maintaining friendships off the field.
CP: Biggest influence and why?
KA: My primary influences would be my Dad and brother, with Neale Matthews having a particular influence throughout my time in youth cricket at Waringstown.
CP: 2009 with the injury was a setback for you. How did you cope with that?
KA: I'm a great believer in making the most of bad situations. I took the opportunity to increase my experience in the medical field before commencing University.
CP: How are you approaching the new season?
KA: I have been training throughout the winter with Edinburgh University 1st XI, whilst working hard on strength and conditioning in the gym.
CP: Ambitions for 2010?
KA: To become established in Waringstown's 1st XI, whilst aspiring to win silverware within the team environment.
CP: Ambitions beyond 2010?
KA: I would like to progress my medical training and qualify as a doctor, whilst also enjoying and competing to the best of my ability on the cricket field.
CP: Proudest achievement to date?
KA: Being selected for the Irish Under 15s for the European Championships in Denmark.
CP: Biggest disappointment to date?
KA: Sustaining a double ligament rupture of my right ankle which ruled me out of all sport for 18 months.
CP: Area looking to improve in 2010?
KA: Playing in the 'V'
CP: What else are you passionate about?
KA: Using my current medical knowledge and communication skills to improve the health and happiness of others.
CP: What other interests have you / what other sports do you play?
KA: Rugby (out half), fitness training, cycling and golf.
CP: What could Irish cricket be doing (if anything) that it is not doing already to make the sport more popular?
KA: Increased media coverage of the sport. For example, short highlights programmes on important Ireland fixtures. This would help to raise awareness of the game, as was the case after the CWC 2007.
Liam Rooney in cooperation with Keith Allen and The Newletter's Alistair Bushe.
Copyright: Cover Point
