Moin Ashraf may have made only a fleeting appearance on the region’s radar but the 18-year-old’s impact has already earmarked him as a star in the making.

The Bradford-born fast bowler, who previously played for Great Horton in the Bradford League, only came to prominence in the final month of the 2010 County Championship, making his debut for Yorkshire against Nottinghamshire and taking two wickets in their first innings of 59.

His next outing came against Kent, where he really confirmed his potential by taking 5-32, with his bowling average from four first-team appearances totalling a useful 19.27.

It was no surprise when, along with fellow youngster Gurman Randhawa, Ashraf was awarded his first professional contract in October.

Yorkshire director of professional cricket Martyn Moxon said at the time: “After a very promising season in 2010, we are all aware of the importance of keeping this exciting, young and talented group of players together.

“To have so many players committing their future to the club this early in the winter is excellent news and gives us a tremendous platform on which to build ahead of next season.”

Not many youngsters in sport can claim to have made such a big impression in such a short space of time and it looks like Ashraf will be bowling plenty more people over in 2011.

TOM SCARGILL