Hollioake in IPL approach

FORMER England one-day captain Adam Hollioake is a shock target for the mega-bucks Indian Premier League.

Hollioake, 37, last played competitive cricket in 2007 when Essex tempted him out of retirement with a short-term Twenty20 contract.

But now a third comeback is on the cards, with the all-rounder a more practical target than England’s big guns.

Franchises are understood to be unsure about signing up Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff, who are only free to play 15 days of the six-week tournament.

Hollioake, who led Surrey to their Twenty20 Cup win in 2003, would therefore represent greater value for money, with lower wage demands and greater availability.

Kolkata Knight Riders, who already boast Australia skipper Ricky Ponting, are his most likely destination having made an initial approach.

Head coach John Buchanan said: “I have had discussions with Hollioake. I see that he has a real role in the franchise."