Christian eyes Baggy Green
January 29, 2012 16:50:41 UK
Australian all-rounder Daniel Christian has admitted that his pockets are heavy due to his participation in the Indian Premier League's last season, but he has reiterated that in spite of being financially secure, his main aim is to play test cricket for Australia.
Hopefully I can cement a spot.
Daniel Christian
IPL franchise Deccan Chargers' owner Gayatri Reddy shocked everyone last year by shelling out $900,000 to secure little-known Christian's services.
He joined the Chargers superstars Kumar Sangakkara and Dale Steyn in their bid to win the coveted IPL trophy for their wealthy owners.
Australia are 2.50 to defeat India in the T20 match series. The tourists themselves are 5.00 to get the win.
The sum looked even more staggering when it was mentioned that the opening bid for him was of a mere $50,000.
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Even the Indian press wasn't full aware who Christian was when Reddy publicly unveiled her new signing.
"We believe Dan Christian is a good buy. He is a good fast bowler and a decent batsman. He is also a brilliant fielder," Reddy said back then.
From a monetary point of view, Christian is a successful player thanks to his IPL stint. But winning his first Baggy Green cap still remains a burning desire for the 28-year old.
He is in Australia's T20 squad for the upcoming two-match T20 series against India but he has even bigger dreams than that.
''I've never been one to play for a contract. I have always wanted to play as well as I can and to go as high as I can.
"From the perspective of setting you up for life [my IPL deal] does [that], and it makes life easier … but it hasn't changed my hunger," Christian said.
''Twelve months ago I would never have thought I was anywhere near the Test team but I've been picked in a few squads, which shows I'm closer to it than I thought.
"I see [my national T20 selection] as a reward for all the hard work and the time in the nets. Hopefully I can cement a spot and be in a position to help Australia win the T20 World Cup in a few months' time," he added.
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