Harry Brook was secured in a bargain deal on Tuesday as Indian Premier League franchises broke the bank to sign Australian fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins.
Brook was one of the most sought-after lots 12 months ago, but after release by Sunrisers Hyderabad following a maiden season including an unbeaten hundred but just 90 runs across 10 other innings, he was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for £380,000 - a drop in value touching £1million.
‘We were a bit surprised by Brook’s price,’ admitted Delhi head coach Ricky Ponting.
As is commonplace on IPL auction day, a recently-concluded World Cup influenced the targets of the 10 franchises, placing Australian winners at the top of wish lists.