Have you ever watched the Big Bash League competitions and thought you have what it takes to go up against the best cricketers in the country?
If you answered yes, good news, because the Melbourne Renegades have announced the return of their distinctive program — Renegades Recruit.
Launched last year, Renegades Recruit is a three-part TV series that looks to unearth some of Victoria’s most skilled and talented cricketers.
Last year’s program brought 10 male club cricketers together to compete for a spot in the Renegades Academy.
However, the 2022 program will include both a men’s and women’s edition.
The men’s edition will stay the same, but the women’s program will look slightly different as it allows players from both Premier grade cricket and community clubs to apply.
Successful applicants will be put through their paces for the first two episodes, which culminates in three players being chosen for the final episode.
The winner of each competition will be influenced by a public vote between the final three players.
Melbourne Renegades general manager James Rosengarten encouraged cricketers from across the state to throw their hat in the ring.
“We know there are plenty of talented cricketers in community competitions across Victoria and hope that our Renegades Recruit program can shine a light on them,” he said.
“This year, the program will expand to feature both a male and female edition. The winners will receive a unique high-performance opportunity with the Renegades to help advance their cricket, plus prizes to support their respective clubs.
“We would love to have representatives from different competitions across our state, including both metropolitan and regional areas, and encourage cricketers who believe they have what it takes to compete at a higher level to apply.”
Last year’s inaugural winner of the Renegades Recruit was North Geelong Cricket Club's Tom Mathieson.
His success opens the door for the Goulburn Valley region’s brightest stars to try their hand at top-level Twenty20 cricket.
Cricket Shepparton, home of the GV Bush Bash League, has a plethora of gun talents rising through the ranks; from Waaia all-rounder and reigning Lightfoot Medal winner Liam Evans, to Northerners’ Joel Brett and Nagambie’s Mark Nolan.
Women’s Premier cricket bowler Maddi Albers (Seymour) also has what it takes to challenge against the best.
Applications are open for each program and will close on Sunday, May 29 at 5pm.
Head to https://www.melbournerenegades.com.au/news/renegades-recruit-returns-in-2022/2022-05-18 to apply.