"He's still very young and raw but he's extremely talented, so it's exciting for us" - Henriques © Getty

Josh Phillipe has signed a three-year extension with Sydney Sixers for the Big Bash League. The 21-year-old, who has drawn comparisons with Steve Smith and is touted as one of the brightest young talents in the country, scored 304 runs at a strike rate of 158.33 last season after making a last-minute move from Perth Scorchers on a one-year deal.

Having promised the youngster with handing him the responsibility of 'keeping, they have managed to hold on to him despite growing interest from other clubs, including Scorchers. "This is a significant signing as we continue to refine and develop our squad to continue the progression the Sixers have enjoyed," Greg Shipperd, Sixers coach, said on Wednesday.

He had impressed everyone with his strokeplay last season. Speaking of his batting, his senior teammate Moises Henriques had said, "He's still very young and raw but he's extremely talented, so it's exciting for us.

"Right from the first game we've been thrilled with how he's gone. I'd suggest, in a few years' time, if he keeps performing how he is now, there must be something wrong if he's not playing at the next level."