New Delhi, October 2 (HS): West Indies opener Andre Fletcher stole the spotlight in the inaugural ILT20 players’ auction after being bought by MI Emirates for a record bid of USD 260,000. The surprise of the auction, however, was that India’s veteran spinner R. Ashwin went unsold despite having the highest base price of USD 120,000.

England’s Scott Currie was picked up by Dubai Capitals for USD 250,000, while Gulf Giants spent USD 170,000 on Liam Dawson. Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq was also roped in by MI Emirates, joining Fletcher for USD 100,000.UAE players made history in this auction.

Sharjah Warriors used the right-to-match card to re-sign Junaid Siddique for USD 170,000, their most expensive deal. MI Emirates bought UAE pacer Muhammad Rohid for USD 140,000.

Other notable signings included Fakhar Zaman and Naseem Shah of Pakistan, acquired by Desert Vipers at their base price of USD 80,000 each. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders bagged Scotland’s Brandon McMullen for USD 110,000 along with Michael Pepper, Unmukt Chand, and George Garton.

In a historic moment, Faisal Khan became the first-ever player from Saudi Arabia to be signed in the league, bought by Vipers for USD 10,000.Gulf Giants were the first team to complete their roster, adding Tabraiz Shamsi, Fred Klaassen, and Chris Wood. Alongside Fletcher, MI Emirates also signed Shakib Al Hasan for USD 40,000 and England all-rounder Jordan Thompson for USD 48,000.

Sharjah Warriors strengthened their squad with Dwaine Pretorius (USD 120,000), Nathan Sowter (USD 100,000), Jayden Seales, and Taskin Ahmed.

The fourth season of ILT20 will begin on December 2 and run until January 4, featuring 34 matches among six teams.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar