Mitchell Starc overtakes Cummins and gets record ₹24.75 crore by KKR

Mitchell Starc marks a remarkable return to the IPL, securing a spot with Kolkata Knight Riders for the 2024 season after the franchise successfully bid ₹24.75 crore for the Australian pace bowler. The bidding war intensified as Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals vied for his services, reaching ₹9.6 crore. However, Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans entered the fray, driving the price beyond ₹10 crore and eventually crossing the ₹20 crore thresholds.

In a historic turn of events, Starc now holds the title of the most expensive player in IPL history, achieving this feat just an hour after Pat Cummins set a new record with his signing by SRH. Fast bowler Pat Cummins will make his return to the IPL, joining Sunrisers Hyderbaad, who pay a fee of ₹20.5 crore. 

Mitchell Starc previously featured in two IPL seasons in 2014 and 2015, representing Royal Challengers Bangalore. The 33-year-old, who recently played a pivotal role in Australia’s ICC World Cup victory, is set to make a significant impact in the upcoming IPL season with Kolkata Knight Riders.