McCullum Likely To Choose Otago
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McCullum likely to choose Otago

CEO and Co Founder at LogicManse

Brendon McCullum is in a two-way race to play in the CL T20 and is likely to turn out for his home side Otago Volts.

Having played for New South Wales in the Australian Twenty20 final last season, McCullum is eligible to play for both the Sydney side as well as Otago in the Champions League to be held in India in October.

But as per the regulations of the tournament, if a player is eligible for more than one Champions League team, his overseas side will have to pay his home side a USD 250,000 as transfer fee to secure his services.

Otago chief executive Ross Dykes had confirmed that he had spoken to McCullum who hinted that he would be playing for his home province.

"You won't find anyone more passionate about Otago than Brendon, but let's wait and see what happens, there hasn't even been an official offer yet," Dykes was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"In terms of New Zealand cricket, I think it is pretty important we put on a good show otherwise we might not get invited back, so having Brendon would certainly be a big help." NSW are also eager to rope in McCullum's services after losing their big-hitting batsman David Warner to the Delhi Daredevils for USD 250,000.

"There is no doubt having Brendon McCullum in your team increases your chances of a win, that is an undeniable fact," NSW chief executive Dave Gilbert said.

"It's about ensuring we have got all the bases covered. It is certainly something we will consider. It is a cost-neutral exercise," he added.

The inaugural Champions League will include the top three Indian Premier League sides Deccan Chargers, Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Delhi Daredevils,apart from the top two sides from Australia, England and South Africa, and the champions from New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Altogether, there will be 23 matches from October 8-23, and the teams will be divided into four groups of three, with the top two advancing to the second stage.

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