Ireland's Kevin O'Brien is hoping to return to the scene of his finest hour by earning an Indian Premier League contract in Saturday's franchise auction.

The all-rounder earned celebrity status in India last year when he struck the fastest World Cup century in history in the stunning win over England and now he hopes to be back in India for IPL 5 and is one of 144 players from around the world looking to be picked up in the auction.

"The IPL is a great tournament, the biggest in the world in my opinion given the crowds and media coverage, and it's so exciting to be in with a chance of being there," he told Press Association Sport.

"The auction is pretty close now and it would be fantastic to get picked up.

"The eight weeks I spent out there at the World Cup was amazing, I loved every minute.

"Obviously the hundred against England meant my profile increased and then I went to Gloucestershire and scored the fastest century in England last season too. Those two innings stand out and hopefully I'll have some support at the auction.

"Kochi wanted me last year after the World Cup but I wasn't on the original list so I couldn't sign which was a shame. It would be fantastic to be signed this year."

While O'Brien may not be the biggest name in that star-studded list, his base price of 50,000 US Dollars makes him a potential bargain against the likes of Graeme Swann, VVS Laxman and Brendon McCullum who all have a reserve of 400,000 US Dollars.