'Cricket Star Rajasthan 2012' winner bags IPL contract

Rajasthan Royals today awarded an IPL contract to Kumar Boresa, winner of the 'Cricket Star Rajasthan 2012' -- a talent hunt presented by the Royals and Dainik Bhaskar to unearth the hidden talent in the state.

The 18-year-old Boresa, who won the contest in 2012, has signed a contract with the Rajasthan Royals worth Rs 10 lakh, and is all set to don the royal blue jersey in ongoing Indian Premier League.

The cricket star programme, which was organised in Rajasthan from September to November last year, included an SMS-based application system following which the applicants were tested on various skills in the centres of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur by the Royals coach Monty Desai and other appointed talent scouts.

The top candidates from all these centres were called to Jaipur at the Sanskar School grounds for the Cricket Star Academy and after three days of matches, Boresa from Pali was chosen as the winner for his fine spin bowling, all-round skills, discipline, enthusiasm and fair play.

Initially the grand prize was an internship with the Royals, but the young lad's impressive performance prompted the team management to upgrade his internship to a full IPL contract with the franchise.

Left-arm spinner, who plays for Pali District Cricket Association, has represented Rajasthan U-16 team in the Vijay Merchant Trophy in 2009 and 2010. The Class 10 student has also led the Stanford School team in many districts and state-level tournaments.

"I used to see the big players on television and never imagined I would get a chance to meet them or practice with them. It is an unforgettable moment for me, my family and my seniors who have always supported and helped me excel in cricket. I am grateful to Rajasthan Royals for giving such an opportunity," Boresa said.