Afghan refugee Hameed Kherkhah has been chosen by the Governor of the Thunder Nation, Mark Waugh, as the Sydney Thunder’s Community Rookie for BBL04.

Kherkhah, 24, is an off-spinner who plays for Campbelltown-Camden Ghosts and was asked to try out by Afghanistan for the ICC Cricket World Cup, to be held in Australia and New Zealand early next year.

Following extensive trials in the MoneyGram Thunder Nation Cup, Kherkhah was chosen from a final group of 16 cricketers representing eight different cultural backgrounds who had their last training session at ANZ Stadium today.

Thunder General Manger Nick Cummins congratulated Kherkhah on his selection.

“There was tough competition throughout the trials and we saw a lot of good cricketers from a variety of community groups,” Mr Cummins said.

“Hameed is not only a fine cricketer but a proud representative of the Afghan community and we look forward to having him at the Thunder this season.”

Mark Waugh was impressed with the way Kherkhah approached his cricket.

“He’s got a terrific attitude the way he goes about his cricket and he gives the ball a good tweek,” Mr Waugh said.

One of 12 children, Kherkhah was grateful for the opportunity to be included on the Thunder list.

“I have worked really hard and I am so pleased that all that hard work has paid off. I would like to thank my family and everyone at the Thunder for their support,” Kherkhah said.

A Community Rookie can replace an injured player on a BBL team list.

Sydney Thunder BBL04 Schedule

Sunday, 21 December 2014-Brisbane Heat – Stadium Australia
Saturday, 27 December 2014-Sydney Sixers – Stadium Australia
Tuesday, 30 December 2014-Melbourne Renegades – Etihad Stadium
Thursday, 1 January 2015-Perth Scorchers – The Furnace (WACA)
Wednesday, 7 January 2015-Hobart Hurricanes – Spotless Stadium
Friday, 9 January 2015-Sydney Sixers – SCG
Monday, 12 January 2015-Adelaide Strikers – Adelaide Oval
Saturday, 17 January 2015-Melbourne Stars – Spotless Stadium