'Just gathering dust'
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Don Bradman memorabilia leads massive cricket auction as Kim Hughes sells lifetime collection
"I've only got 24 hours to tell you how much I've got," he said.
"I went into one of my storage rooms a fair while ago now, and it was just lots and lots of stuff. You know, bats that have been signed, photos and all sorts of things that you've collected in your travels and are just collecting dust.
"I've got them up for sale, and hopefully they'll go to people that will put them up in an appropriate place and enjoy them."
The auction includes several montages and framed photos signed by The Don, some related to the 1948 "Invincibles" tour.
The collection also features signatures from a roll-call of world cricket legends, including Richard Hadlee, Ian Botham, Viv Richards and Australian icon Adam Gilchrist.
Asked if he would be sad to part ways with his collection, Hughes explained that he lacks the resources to display it properly. Instead, his true reward is knowing that fans will get pleasure from owning and appreciating the memorabilia.
"In a way, but put it this way, I think I'd be a lot more satisfied if I knew that they were still in the storage just gathering dust, and then no one sees them at all," he said.
"I certainly don't have enough money to build a huge house and then have it like a gallery-type scenario.
"But I think the thing that I get a buzz out of is that other people get the pleasure."
While parting with most of his collection, Hughes made one exception: his "greatest ornament", the baggy green.
The iconic cap will remain in the family, as he plans to leave it to his grandson.
The sale is happening online.
Hughes captained the Australian team in 28 Test matches between 1979 and 1984. He also led his home side, Western Australia.
