Tawanda Muyeye is optimistic Kent team-mate Nathan Gilchrist can rediscover his best form this summer.

The duo, both 23, have become close friends - on and off the field - in recent years.

While Muyeye continued to make huge strides and was named Kent’s 2023 emerging player-of-the-year after hitting his maiden first-class century, Gilchrist endured an injury-hit campaign.

Fast bowler Gilchrist’s injury issues came after he had enjoyed a big first couple of weeks in 2023, which saw him earn an England Lions call-up and also have his Kent deal extended.

“He’s probably our best bowler,” said Muyeye. “He had a tough year last year but I know he’s going to bounce back. He’s one of my best mates.

“Seeing the way he has gone about this winter after the setback he had last year, that’s been pretty impressive.

“I think we’re going to have the old Nathan back, raring to go - he will be better and fitter. I just pray that he goes well this year.

“He has the potential to be an England bowler, so you never know what can happen. Things can change so quickly.

“I just hope this year is a good year for him.”

Kent were unable to collect any silverware last term, avoiding relegation from County Championship Division 1 on the final day, but had won the One-Day Cup two years ago and the T20 Blast competition in 2021.

Zimbabwe-born Muyeye, a refugee who qualifies as a domestic player, contributed in the early stages of Spitfires’ One-Day Cup win - only to then lose his spot due to an unusual problem.

He said: “I didn’t really contribute.

“I only played two games and then had my wisdom teeth taken out and I couldn’t win my spot back! Joey Evison was playing so well and was new to us.

“But, hopefully, I can make a big contribution and help us win some more silverware this year.”