Kolkata Knight Riders secure Mitchell Starc for record Rs 24.75 crore in IPL 2024 auction
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Dubai: Mitchell Starc, the Australian pace sensation, has set a new record in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the most expensive player ever purchased.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) splurged Rs 24.75 crore to acquire his services in the IPL 2024 auction held in Dubai.
Starc's remarkable purchase marked a significant moment, making him the second player to surpass the 20-crore mark in the same auction, following his teammate Pat Cummins, who was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 20.5 crore.
The 33-year-old speedster, entering the auction with a base price of Rs 2 crore, ignited a fierce bidding war among franchises like Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans. Kolkata Knight Riders emerged victorious, clinching Starc at a historic price, surpassing the previous records.
Starc returns to the IPL after an eight-year absence, focusing primarily on his national commitments since his last IPL appearance in 2015. His earlier stint with KKR in 2018 was cut short due to a right tibial bone fracture, sidelining him for the entire season.
His earlier IPL career, primarily with the Royal Challengers Bangalore, showcased his prowess as a formidable bowler. In the 2014 edition, Starc claimed 14 wickets in 14 matches, followed by an outstanding performance in 2015, amassing 20 wickets in 13 matches at an impressive average.
Beyond his IPL achievements, Starc played a pivotal role in Australia's victorious ODI World Cup campaign, securing 16 wickets in 10 matches during the tournament. His consistent performance and remarkable bowling skills have been evident in both limited-overs cricket and T20Is.
Starc's recent track record in limited-overs cricket is impressive, amassing 41 wickets in 22 ODI matches. His 2022 season reflected his exceptional economy rate of 4.26, showcasing his ability to control runs effectively.
While his economy rate experienced a slight increase in 2023, Starc maintained his impact in T20Is, claiming 13 wickets in 10 matches with an average of 24. His consistent contributions in the shortest format of the game continue to solidify his position as a premier fast bowler.