Talented youngster, Will Sutherland has signed with the Melbourne Renegades for BBL07.
Sutherland opted to forgo a promising AFL career with many expecting the 18-year-old to be selected inside the top-10 in the draft, choosing to instead pursue a career in cricket.
The all-rounder, who is captain of the Victorian Metro under-19s side, made his debut for Victoria in the JLT Cup last month, before snaring 4-11 in his second match against New South Wales.
"I'm really excited to be on board with the Renegades this season – it will be my first taste of the BBL as a player," Sutherland said.
"The opportunity to learn from the likes of Aaron Finch, Brad Hodge, Dwayne Bravo and Brad Hogg is something I'm really looking forward to.
"T20 cricket tests every part of your game so I'm excited about working closely with some of the best players in the world to achieve success with the Renegades and develop my own skills along the way."
The Big Bash however, could clash with Sutherland's under-19 commitments, with the Under-19 World Cup taking place from January 12 to February 4.
But Renegades coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful Sutherland can still make his Big Bash debut this summer.
"Will is an exciting prospect for us and we'll give him every opportunity around his under 19 commitments to push for a spot in the starting XI this season," McDonald said.
"There will be some strong competition for spots, but Will provides a versatile option given his ability with bat and ball.
"He'll get a lot out of being around the squad and he's certainly going to provide some excitement for Renegades fans in the years to come."
