Australian pacer Mitchell Starc scripted Indian Premier League history for a second time on Saturday by becoming the most expensive purchase ever at the IPL 2024 Auction.
The left-arm quick was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering Rs 24.75 crore, surpassing compatriot Pat Cummins’ record deal of Rs 20.5 crore with Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier in the auction.
Starc’s return to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus was highly sought after by franchises as valuable preparation for the T20 World Cup.
The bidding war saw Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals withdraw at Rs 9.8 crore and Rs 9.6 crore respectively, before Gujarat Titans challenged KKR who eventually secured the fast bowler’s services.
With his exceptional ability to swing the new ball at a searing pace and bowl skillful variations, Starc will bolster any bowling lineup.
His last IPL stint came in 2015 for Royal Challengers Bangalore, claiming 20 wickets in 13 games at a stellar average of 14.55.
Injury issues have since kept him out of the tournament barring a short 2018 contract with KKR which was eventually terminated.
Starc boasts an excellent T20I record – 73 wickets in 58 matches at 22.91. His ability will be crucial for KKR as they look to regain past glory after failing to qualify in 2023.
