In a groundbreaking development, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) managed to take center stage at the Indian Premier League 2024 auction held on Tuesday, December 19, by acquiring the services of Australian speedster Mitchell Starc for an astounding INR 24.75 crore. This staggering amount not only ranks Starc as the most expensive acquisition in the history of IPL auctions but also sends a strong message about KKR’s intentions for the upcoming season.
The auction, which usually features intense bidding wars and strategizing by the franchises, saw the Kolkata-based team outbid others to rope in the left-arm pacer. Starc, who has been away from the limelight of the IPL for eight years, is now poised to make a triumphant return as the league’s most valuable player.
Australia’s women’s cricket captain, Alyssa Healy, who also happens to be Starc’s spouse, shared her views on this monumental occasion. Healy underscored the importance of diligence and sacrifice while reflecting on her husband’s dedication to his sport. “Look, it is what it is,” she stated during a media briefing on Wednesday. “It is an amazing moment for Mitch. It is a great justification for the hard work he has put in and (for) probably some of the choices he has made over the last eight years to put his country first.”
Healy had been busy training hard in the gym when the news of Starc’s record-breaking deal emerged. “I was actually in the gym, not thinking of beers, working hard (and) watching it all unfold. (It was an) amazing day for him and Pat (Cummins),” she said, expressing the joy she felt for both her husband and his compatriot.
The power couple, who tied the knot in April 2016, have scaled significant heights in their careers. Healy, with an excess of 5000 international runs to her name, was recently appointed the captain of the Australian cricket team across all formats and is scheduled to make her captaincy debut in the one-off Test match against India at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium starting on December 21.
In contrast, Mitchell Starc, aged 33, is not merely revisiting the IPL as an elite player, but as a marquee signing, signaling KKR’s belief in his abilities to make a difference. Starc, renowned for his hostile pace and swing, once donned the Royal Challengers Bangalore jersey in 2014 and 2015, delivering commendable performances. Although he was previously picked by KKR in the 2018 auction, a subsequent injury barred him from participating in the tournament that year.
Reflecting on his new journey with KKR, Starc expressed his zeal and anticipation of playing at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens. His message to KKR fans was filled with excitement: “Hey KKR Fans. I’m thrilled to be joining this year’s IPL and can’t wait to get to Eden Gardens to experience the home fans, the home crowd, and the atmosphere. Looking forward to seeing you then. Ami KKR,” stated the Australian quick.
This investment by KKR could potentially be a massive game-changer for the franchise, especially given Starc’s prowess and ability to dominate on the cricket field. His inclusion undoubtedly enhances the squad’s bowling depth which is a critical component for any team vying for the coveted IPL trophy.
As the cricket community reacts to Starc’s landmark deal, KKR fans eagerly await the 2024 edition where Starc’s lethal yorkers and pinpoint accuracy will once again mesmerize spectators and intimidate batsmen alike. With such a valuable addition to their roster, Kolkata Knight Riders aim to climb up the ranks and re-establish themselves as formidable contenders in the world’s most opulent cricketing extravaganza, the Indian Premier League.
