In a historic moment for the Indian Premier League (IPL), Australian bowler Mitchell Starc has become the most expensive signing in the league's history. The left-arm fast bowler was bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering 24.75 crore Indian rupees (£2.3m). This record-breaking bid surpassed the previous highest bid of 20.5 crore (£1.9m) for Pat Cummins, another Australian cricketer, earlier in the same auction.
What is the significance of Mitchell Starc's signing?
Mitchell Starc's signing for such a massive amount highlights his exceptional skills and reputation as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. His ability to generate pace, swing the ball, and deliver accurate yorkers has made him a formidable force in international cricket. The Kolkata Knight Riders recognized his immense value and were willing to invest heavily in securing his services for the upcoming IPL season.
How does Mitchell Starc's bid compare to previous records?
The bid for Mitchell Starc not only broke the previous IPL record but also surpassed the highest amount paid for an overseas player in the league's history. The previous record was held by England's Sam Curran, who was bought for 18.15 crore (£1.85m) in 2022. Starc's signing demonstrates the increasing value placed on top-quality fast bowlers in the IPL.
Other notable signings in the IPL auction
While Mitchell Starc's signing stole the headlines, there were several other notable signings in the IPL auction. England bowler Chris Woakes was acquired by the Punjab Kings for 4.2 crore (£400,000), while his teammate Harry Brook went to the Delhi Capitals for 4 crore (£380,000). These signings represent a significant drop in value compared to Brook's previous fee of £1.35m. Additionally, all-rounder David Willey, who recently retired from international cricket, was picked up by the Lucknow Super Giants for 2 crore (£189,000).
Conclusion
Mitchell Starc's record-breaking signing in the IPL auction showcases the immense value placed on top-quality fast bowlers in the league. His exceptional skills and reputation have made him a sought-after player, and the Kolkata Knight Riders were willing to invest heavily to secure his services. This signing not only sets a new benchmark for future auctions but also highlights the global appeal and competitiveness of the IPL.
