Unsung Aussie lands $900,000 IPL auction bid

BANGALORE, January 9, 2011 (AFP) - Little-known Australian Daniel Christian was the surprise highest earner at the final day of cricket's Indian Premier League auction on Sunday, bought for $900,000 by the Deccan Chargers. The all-rounder, who had a reserve price of $50,000, has played just three Twenty20 internationals but performed well recently in domestic games.

"He is worth the money. He is a good fast bowler and a decent batsman. He is also a brilliant fielder," said Gayatri Reddy, owner of the Chargers.

On Saturday, the first day of the auction, 15 players attracted bids of million or more as team owners including business tycoons and Bollywood actresses competed to sign up players at the auction in Bangalore.

The highest price was for Indian left-handed opener Gautam Gambhir, who was snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a record $2.4 million.

He was joined in the $2 million club by compatriots Yusuf Pathan, Robin Uthappa and Rohit Sharma.

"I was expecting to get around .

8 million, but I am thankful to all the teams who bid for me," Gambhir said. "I've always given my best shot while playing for Delhi (Daredevils) and I'll be at my best for KKR as well."

The annual IPL to