IPL auction

1. Mitchell Starc becomes the most expensive buy in the IPL 2024 mini-auction, surpassing teammate Pat Cummins.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquires Starc for a whopping Rs 24.75 crore in a sensational bidding war.
3. The Australian fast bowler last played in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015.

Sports, Dec 19: In a dramatic turn of events at the IPL 2024 mini-auction in Dubai, Mitchell Starc emerged as the most expensive buy, surpassing his teammate Pat Cummins.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured Starc for a staggering Rs 24.75 crore in a bidding war that unfolded as one of the most fascinating moments in IPL auction history.

Despite not being in the initial sets of the auction, Mitchell Starc triggered intense competition among franchises. Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians showed interest in him, but budget constraints forced them to withdraw as the bidding escalated. Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders then engaged in a fierce battle, with the final price going beyond Rs 20 crore.

KKR eventually secured the services of the Australian fast bowler, spending 25 percent of its total purse on this sensational acquisition. Mitchell Starc, who last played in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015, is set to make a remarkable return to the tournament.

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This turn of events followed Pat Cummins’ earlier success in the auction, where SunRisers Hyderabad secured him for Rs 20.50 crore.

However, Cummins’ record as the most expensive player was short-lived as Mitchell Starc surpassed it within hours.

Mitchell Starc had previously played for KKR in the IPL 2014 and 2015 editions, showcasing an impressive performance with 34 wickets.

The high prices fetched by Australian pacers like Starc and Cummins have sparked discussions about the need for potential price caps in future IPL auctions. The exorbitant sums spent on these players have raised concerns and highlighted the intense competition among franchises for top-tier talent.