MELBOURNE Renegades have loaded up on kid power by signing three of the “best young cricketers in the country” – Will Sutherland, Mackenzie Harvey and Zak Evans.

The teenagers have committed for the next three Big Bash League seasons and will occupy places on the senior list.

All-rounder Sutherland, 18, shaped as a possible top-five AFL draft prospect last year but gave footy the boot in a big win for cricket.

Paceman Evans, 18, was also touted as a draft prospect while Harvey, 17, is the nephew of World Cup winner Ian Harvey.

Harvey clubbed a 59 (48) against a full-strength England attack in January while batting for the Cricket Australia XI.

The schoolboy prodigy also smacked a ton against Pakistan in an under-19 match.

“It’s a great injection of youth, which broadens our depth,” Gades coach Andrew McDonald said.

“Zak is a really impressive young paceman who will learn plenty from working alongside guys like Kane Richardson and Chris Tremain who have played at international level.

“These guys are among the best young cricketers in the country so to have them locked in for the next three seasons is a great result.

“Will and Mackenzie had a taste of the Renegades environment last season, so they’ll know what to expect and will be a lot more comfortable.”

Sutherland joined the Renegades as a rookie last season and was promoted to the senior squad during the tournament while Harvey was signed as a replacement player for captain Aaron Finch.

While neither made their debut, all three are likely to earn an opportunity next summer when the tournament expands to a full 14-round home-and-away fixture.

The trio has represented Australia at under-19 level. Evans took 2-26 (nine overs) against Afghanistan to help Australia advance to the under-19 World Cup final this year.

“I’ve always enjoyed cricket and the camaraderie that comes with it just a little bit more (than football),” he said.

“Footy has always been the sport that keeps me fit for cricket. Being around a really accomplished fast bowling unit is only going to help my game.”

Sutherland, the son of Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland, said he was ready to impact the BBL.

Veteran Brad Hodge announced his retirement after last season’s semi-final loss to Adelaide Strikers while Brad Hogg is also set to depart.

The Renegades are also bracing to lose star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo for BBL08.