The KKR team has successfully secured Starc's services for a staggering INR 24.75 crore.
Australia's left-arm fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, is set to make a comeback to the IPL after an eight-year absence. He was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping INR 24.75 crore at the IPL 2024 auction in Dubai, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. This record-breaking deal surpassed his fellow Australian teammate, Pat Cummins, who was signed by SRH for INR 20.5 crore earlier in the day.
Starc's return to the IPL will serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. Initially priced at INR 2 crore, he attracted a bidding war between the Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. Rishabh Pant, representing Delhi, raised the paddle, but the bidding escalated until DC withdrew at 9.6 crore. The Kolkata Knight Riders then entered the fray, leading to Mumbai Indians pulling out at 9.8 crore, with the Gujarat Titans joining in.
Starc's exceptional ability to swing the ball at high speeds, combined with his skillful changes of pace, make him an invaluable asset to any team.
The last time Starc participated in the IPL was in 2015, representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore after his debut season the previous year. During that season, he took an impressive 20 wickets in 13 games, boasting an average of 14.55 and an economy rate of 6.76.
However, since 2015, Starc has been absent from the tournament due to various reasons, including injuries. In 2018, he was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs. 9.40 crore but had to withdraw due to an injury.
In terms of international cricket, Starc's last appearance in a T20 fixture was over a year ago during the T20 World Cup. Throughout his career, he has claimed 73 wickets in 58 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 22.91.
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