Young Penrith cricketer Callee Black has been inducted into the 19th edition of the Basil Sellers Emerging Player Program for 2024/25 season.
The talented all-rounder was deemed a ‘Tier 1’ athlete, having the potential to earn a state or rookie contract in the short-term.
Founded by Cricket NSW Vice Patron and Life Member Basil Sellers, the scholarship program aims to provide the state’s best emerging cricketers with the skills and opportunities needed to effectively transition to NSW contracted playing opportunities.
After being selected as a ‘Tier 1’ recipient, Callee will receive the Basil Sellers financial scholarship, access to the Basil Sellers Emerging Player Program, as well as an equipment sponsorship offer with Kookaburra Sports.
Residing in Bathurst and playing for the Penrith Cricket Club, 17-year-old Callee is an exciting left-arm fast bowler and top-order batter. Callee is a proud Wiradjuri woman and has represented NSW at the National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC).
In 2023, her performances at the NICC were rewarded with selection in the Australian Women’s Indigenous Team where she toured Vanuatu. Off the field, Callee is in Year 12 and is currently completing the HSC.
“We are grateful to Basil Sellers AM for his continued and ongoing support to encourage the growth and development of young cricketers in NSW,” said Jack Balnave, Head of the Cricket NSW Foundation.
“The scholarship program since its inception in 2006/07, has shaped the lives of so many of our stellar cricketers who have gone on to become some of the world’s biggest names in cricket in subsequent years.”
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.