Pietersen and Flintoff fetch top dollar

12 April 2012

Former England captains Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff became the highest-priced players in the Indian Premier League on Friday.

Pietersen, who had a reserve price of US dollars 1.35million, was eventually sold to Bangalore Royal Challengers for USD 1.55million, while Flintoff was snapped up by the Chennai Super Kings for the same price.

"We were very keen on Pietersen and I'm glad I got him at the price I paid," said Royal Challengers team owner Vijay Mallya.

"He is a superb addition to the team and I, of course, would love him to play for six weeks rather than three."

Asked if Pietersen would lead the team, Mallya added: "The captaincy slot is open, but a decision will be made after a discussion.

"Pietersen will be with us for three weeks and that is something we have to take into consideration."

N Srinivasan of the Chennai Super Kings was pleased with the acquisition of Flintoff, saying: "He is an outstanding all-rounder and will improve the balance of the team."

Fellow England players Paul Collingwood, Owais Shah (both Delhi Daredevils) and Ravi Bopara were all sold but there were no bidders for Luke Wright or Samit Patel.

Collingwood went for USD275,000, just above his reserve price of USD250,000, while Shah, who had a reserve price of USD150,000, was also snapped up for USD275,000.

Essex all-rounder Bopara attracted "fierce bidding" and was finally sold to Kings XI Punjab for USD450,000, from a reserve price of USD150,000.

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