Mitchell Starc Looks Ahead to Record-Breaking Return to IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders
In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the cricketing world, Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is making a grand return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after an eight-year hiatus. Starc’s comeback is not just another addition to the glittering array of stars in the IPL; it’s a headline-grabbing homecoming as he joins the ranks of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering fee that has set a new precedent in player auctions.
KKR, known for their strategic moves in the cricket market, broke the bank and raised the bar by securing Starc’s robust bowling services for a jaw-dropping INR 24.75 crore. This bold bid not only brought the speedster into their fold but also made history, with Starc becoming the most expensive buy ever by an IPL franchise.
The Australian pacer, known for his lethal pace and ability to swing the ball both ways, has expressed his sheer anticipation of returning to the Indian pitches.
Mitchell Starc, to cricket.com.auIt’s been eight years, I think. Back to KKR where I was supposed to be in 2018. So I’ll be back there for the chance to pull on the gold and purple. I guess my memories are a few and far between of back in 2014 and 2015 with RCB but yeah, really excited to get stuck in. Obviously, a new group of players. A bunch of guys I certainly haven’t met or been able to work with before.
Starc’s enthusiasm is not only limited to his professional growth in the game but also includes an avid eagerness to don the KKR colors. “KKR is a team with a rich legacy, and I’m thrilled to be part of such an esteemed setup,” Starc highlighted, showcasing his readiness to blend with the likes of domestic and international cricketing stalwarts.
KKR, gearing up for their first clash of the IPL 2024 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday, March 23rd, looks to leverage Starc’s addition as a strategic advantage. Notably, SRH will be led by another Australian cricketer, Pat Cummins, making the upcoming battle a display not only of team prowess but also of individual brilliance.
As the cricketing fraternity eagerly anticipates the whistle to kick-start the upcoming IPL edition, all eyes will be on Mitchell Starc, the man whose thunderous return is poised to redefine bowling dominance in the razzmatazz of the world’s premier T20 league. Cricket aficionados, mark your calendars for what promises to be a season of high-octane cricketing action where records, like the one KKR set for Starc, may just be the beginning.
19:30 IST
