Rising star Jason Sangha has signed with BBL champions Sydney Thunder and is the recipient of the first MoneyGram Cricket Scholarship, designed at rewarding local outstanding cricketers from a South Asian background.

“MoneyGram’s scholarship program is a continuation of MoneyGram’s support of cricket from our ICC partnership to investment in local South Asian competitions,” said Michael Minassian, Senior Regional Director at MoneyGram.

“Our scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to talented community players as they make the step up to the next level. We believe Jason Sangha is an ideal first recipient.”

Sangha was humbled to be the first player to receive the scholarship.

“I’m really fortunate to be able to get the scholarship from MoneyGram,” said Sangha.

“I’m very thankful for what they’ve done for me to support not only my cricket but my education as well, I’m really looking forward to a future with them,” he added.

MoneyGram have extended their relationship with Sydney Thunder, continuing to sponsor the MoneyGram Thunder Nation Cup, a community cricket tournament taking place in October with cricket players from eight cultural backgrounds.

The reigning Big Bash League Champions have secured the services of the 16-year old batsman as its Community Rookie for BBL06.

Sangha who is currently in Year 11 is highly rated having scored 102 for Australia Under 19s on his Youth ODI debut in January 2016, he was also the youngest player to ever receive a contract with the NSW Blues.

The gifted young batsman is excited about the opportunity to learn from the BBL’s defending champions.

“It feels amazing to sign with the Thunder,” said Sangha.

“To be part of such an elite bunch, I’m looking forward to working with the guys and hopefully have a good season.”

Sangha has represented the club previously, as part of the Sydney Thunder Academy squad that played against New Zealand’s Canterbury Kings earlier in the year.

Sangha has been a fan of the club since its inception.

“I really enjoyed playing with the Academy, with (Thunder off-spinner) Chris Green who was our captain,” said Sangha.

“It was really good to experience T20 cricket with the Thunder Academy, I loved it. It’s a dream come true to be honest, since watching on TV when I was little I’ve always wanted to be a part of the team and now that I am… It is amazing.”

Sydney Thunder’s Director of Cricket Michael Hussey is keen for the Thunder to secure the best young players available and believes Sangha has a bright future in the game.

“Jason has showed his potential with several impressive performances at Under 17 and Under 19 level,” said Director of Cricket Michael Hussey.

“He’s a talented batsman who we hope will gain a lot from being a part of the Thunder squad. We’re looking to build sustainable success at the Thunder, and Jason is a bright prospect for Australian cricket,” he added.

Photo credit: Red Elephant