In a historic moment at the IPL 2024 Auction, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has become the most expensive player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kolkata Knight Riders secured the services of the speedster for a groundbreaking sum of Rs 24.75 crore.
The auction for Starc began with opening bids from Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, but as the bidding surpassed the 9-crore mark, Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans entered the race. An intense bidding war unfolded between Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans, with the Kolkata-based franchise eventually emerging victorious and successfully acquiring the services of the record-breaking speedster. Mitchell Starc’s acquisition at such a high price underscores his value and the intense competition among franchises for top-quality players in the IPL.
The record created not long back is 𝘽𝙍𝙊𝙆𝙀𝙉! 🤯
Most expensive player of all time 👇
P̶a̶t̶ ̶C̶u̶m̶m̶i̶n̶s̶ Mitchell Starc 😎
Mitchell Starc is SOLD to #KKR for INR 24.75 Crore 💜#IPLAuction | #IPL
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) December 19, 2023
With Kolkata Knight Riders’ successful bid for Mitchell Starc at Rs 24.75 crore, the Australian pacer has now surpassed his compatriot Pat Cummins to become the most expensive player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Prior to this, Pat Cummins held the record as the most expensive player when he was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 21.50 crore.
Mitchell Starc has been a prominent figure leading Australia’s pace attack for nearly a decade, showcasing his left-arm pace and contributing significantly to the team’s success in international cricket. Although it has been some time since he last participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the addition of the Australian star to his new team is expected to bring substantial firepower to their bowling arsenal. With a proven track record of winning matches with his skillful and aggressive bowling, Starc’s inclusion is likely to bolster the team’s bowling strength and enhance its competitiveness in the IPL.
In the ICC Men’s 2023 ODI World Cup, Mitchell Starc showcased his bowling prowess by taking 10 wickets in 8 matches. His performances contributed to Australia’s campaign in the tournament and went on to win the World Cup.
In the IPL 2014 season, while playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the left-arm quick emerged as one of the leading wicket-takers in the competition. Starc impressed with both his pace and precision, scalping a total of 20 wickets during the tournament.
