Test regulars Graeme Swann and Jonathan Trott are among England’s eight representatives in the 2010 Indian Premier League auction on Tuesday. Swann has been in outstanding form for England in South Africa and could be set for a lucrative deal if the franchises are prepared to overlook his involvement with England in Bangladesh. Swann could miss the first two week of the tournament as it coincides with England’s Test series with Bangladesh.

Only 15-20 stars from the shortlist of 66 will secure a contract as the IPL seeks to give an opportunity to some younger domestic players. Other England players in contention are spinner Monty Panesar, Middlesex batsmen Eoin Morgan, and the Yorkshire duo of Anthony McGrath and Tim Bresnan.

Morgan is likely to play as he is available throughout the tournament whilst Panesar could be set for a return to the limelight after impressing in South Africa for Highveld Lions. Former England batsmen Mark Ramprakash and Robert Key make up the England contingent.

Excitement is beginning to build as some of the world’s biggest stars are set to go under the hammer as IPL franchises bid for their signatures. Franchises can bid up to £468,000 as they look to secure the players services for the IPL tournament in March-April 2010 and also the Champions League Twenty20 tournament later in the year should they qualify.

World Twenty20 champions Pakistan, Australia and South Africa have the biggest representation at the auction with 11 players each.  Sri Lanka contribute 9 whilst 8 West Indian players will also go under the hammer.

Exciting Bangladeshi all rounder Shakib Al Hasan is Bangladesh’s sole representative in the auction but the exciting young talent is sure to attract attention. Hasan is currently the leading all rounder in One Day International cricket according to the official ICC ODI rankings.