KKR breaks bank, makes Mitchell Starc IPL's most expensive player at Rs 24.75 Crore

Australian right-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has broken records by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bagged him for Rs 24.75 crore. 

Starc surpassed his teammate Pat Cummins, who was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Rs 20.50 crore, previously holding the title of the IPL's priciest player.

The 33-year-old pacer marks his return to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus. Starc's last appearance in the IPL dates back to 2015, and he has been absent from the auctions since then.

Starc's strikes

• Anticipation surrounded Starc's appearance in the auction, with franchises expecting an intense bidding war for the talented bowler.
• The Australian right-arm pacer showcased an impressive performance in the recently concluded ODI World Cup, securing 16 wickets. He continues to excel in the ongoing Test series against Pakistan.
• During the bidding process, initial interest came from Mumbai Indians (MI) and KKR. However, it eventually narrowed down to a fierce contest between KKR and Gujarat Titans, both eager to secure Starc's services.

KKR's breaks the bank

• KKR aggressively pursued Starc due to the absence of a premium pacer in their squad. The team had released Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Umesh Yadav, and Shardul Thakur, leaving Venkatesh Iyer and Andre Russell as secondary pacers.
• Starc is set to lead KKR's bowling unit, showcasing his exceptional skill in swinging the new ball, which has troubled top right-handed batsmen.
• Having previously played 27 IPL matches for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Starc holds a record of 34 wickets.
• In his international T20 career, Starc has appeared in 58 matches, securing 34 wickets.