The cricket bat wielded by Indian captain MS Dhoni as he scored the winning runs in this year's world cup final is coming to a charity auction tonight (July 18).
Dhoni hit the winning six against Sri Lanka with the bat as part of his match-winning innings of 91 from just 79 deliveries.
The shot sent the country into a frenzy of celebration, which lasted several days in some quarters.
Dhoni hits the winning runs in the world cup final |
The bat's sale will raise money for his wife's Sakshi Foundation, which helps disadvantaged children.
A ball used in the final, signed by Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan in what was his last game, will also feature at the gala auction in London's Hilton Park Lane hotel.
Cricket equipment worn by a number of India players will also be on offer at the event, reports Indian website DNA.
India is crazy for cricket and we've already seen in our Top 5 pieces of cricket memorabilia how memorabilia associated with former India cricket captain Sachin Tendulkar can reach vast sums.
The willow he used when compiling 163 not out against New Zealand at Christchurch in 2009 sold at a charity auction last year for $93,619.
One of the most notable moments of the 2007 World Cup was the six sixes scored in an over by South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs off the bowling of hapless Dutchman Daan van Bunge.
The signed bat used by Gibbs for the over and the signed shirts worn by the two players sold for £1,620 at Bonhams earlier this year.
Autographed items are popular with cricket collectors, and those looking for memorabilia on the private markets may be interested by this bat, signed by members of the England cricket team.
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