T20 star Richard Levi likely to represent Mumbai Indians

South African opener Richard Levi, who grabbed the headlines hitting the fastest ever century in T20 internationals, will, in all likelihood, play for Mumbai Indians in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League.

Levi is likely to be taken as the replacement of former Australia batsman Andrew Symonds, who recently announced his retirement from all forms of the game.

If all goes well, the latest T20 sensation could be seen opening the innings for Mumbai Indians with Sachin Tendulkar.

After Levi smashed his way into the record books scoring a 51-ball 117 against New Zealand last Sunday, Pune Warriors were tipped as favourites to acquire his services after the 24-year-old was ignored by the franchises at the mini-auction held on February 4.

Levi's base price was $50,000.

While it seemed that Pune would avail his services, Symonds's retirement suddenly brought Mumbai Indians into the picture as they are now entitled to a replacement.

Having weighed his options, the 24-year-old from Cape Town decided to don the Mumbai Indians jersey for the coming season.

The T20 century in Hamilton certainly raised his stocks.

It is understood that Levi will be paid really well by Mumbai Indians, as his agent, Arthur Turner, was quoted by a website few days back about franchises "making offers" for his client.