Sanju Samson becomes most expensive player in KCL auction, Sold to Kochi Blue Tigers

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Indian cricketer Sanju Samson became the most expensive player in the Kerala Cricket League auction. The Rajasthan Royals captain was sold to Kochi Blue Tigers for a record price of Rs 26.80 lakhs. Although Sanju's base price was three lakhs, the fierce bidding between Kochi Blue Tigers, Thrissur Titans and Trivandrum Royals ensured a new expensive player in the KCL.

Pacer Vishweshwar Suresh, who had a base price of three lakhs, remained unsold. He played for Alappuzha Ripples last season. There was a fierce bidding war between Thrissur Titans and Aries Kollam Sailors for Sijomon Joseph. Thrissur Titans bought the player to their camp for Rs 5.20 lakhs.

All-rounder Vinoop Manoharan was sold to Kochi Blue Tigers for Rs 3 lakh. M.S. Akhil went to Aries Kollam Sailors for Rs 8.40 lakh. Vinod Kumar was sold to Thrissur Titans for Rs 6.20 lakh. Jalaj Saxena, who will play his debut in KCL, went to Alleppey Ripples for Rs 12.40 lakh. His base price was Rs 3 lakh. Varun Nayanar was bought by Thrissur Titans for Rs 3.20 lakh.

Vishnu Vinod went to Aries Kollam Sailors for Rs 12.80 lakh. Vishnu had played for Thrissur Titans player last year. Ajinas M was acquired by Calicut Globstars for Rs 6.40 lakhs. The base price was Rs 3 lakhs.

Considering his experience playing for India and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, the KCA hopes that bringing Sanju to the KCL will increase the popularity of the league. This will also serve as an opportunity for Sanju to regain back his form and fitness.