Ryan ten Doeschate is the big name of the Dutch national side thanks to both his success with Essex, and a stunning season in the ICC Intercontinental Cup in 2006. He broke David Hemp's record for the competition's highest score by hitting an unbeaten 259 and finished with the extraordinary average of 228.66 including four successive centuries. He also finished as the Netherlands' leading wicket taker in the tournament. He followed this up by performing admirably in the 2006-07 World Cricket League where he topped Netherlands' batting and bowling averages. Born in South Africa, he cites Jonty Rhodes as his hero, and has played for Western Province. He is of Dutch descent, though, enabling him to qualify under the European Citizenship law to play county cricket. He has completed three seasons with Essex after being discovered during a pre-season tour, and he has become something of a cult figure amongst the Essex supporters with his huge hitting, skiddy bowling and big smile. Consistent performances led him to be shortlisted for the inaugural ICC Associate ODI Player of the Year in 2007.