There were 14 New Zealanders in the auction this year, but all eyes were on the fortunes of youngster Rachin Ravindra. A magnificent performance in the ODI World Cup meant that a massive pay day was only a matter of time. But auction dynamics are unpredictable and purchase prices often depend on several variables.

Rachin has tremendous potential, but his T20 pedigree still needs to be refined. A chance to sharpen his short format game in the Fleming-Dhoni ‘academy’ is a golden opportunity and knowing Rachin’s hunger for knowledge, I am sure he will only benefit from the experience. Plus, at 24 years of age, Rs 1.8 crore is a sizeable deposit for a brand-new house in Wellington.