Despite his previous unavailability post-auctions, Mitchell Starc has emerged as a focal point of interest for several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises in the upcoming auction. The 33-year-old Australian paceman, renowned for his left-arm speed, notably featured for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2014 and 2015. Unfortunately, injuries sidelined him in 2016 and 2017. In 2018, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured Starc’s services for a substantial Rs 9.40 crore, yet he didn’t make an appearance for the franchise.
Following an impressive display in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, Starc, eyeing the forthcoming T20 World Cup, has opted to participate in the auction. Starc has kept his respective base price in the highest bracket of Rs 2 crore. Many IPL franchises are expected to vie for the seasoned left-arm fast bowler, possibly allocating a significant portion of their budget to secure his services. Starc’s decision to enter the auction has stirred anticipation and intrigue among franchises looking to bolster their pace arsenals for the upcoming IPL season.
Here are the five IPL teams that can target Mitchell Starc in the IPL 2024 auction:
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Purse for Auction: KKR has a substantial purse of 32.7 crores, providing them financial flexibility.
- Current Squad Dynamics: With international bowlers like Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson, KKR might target Starc for additional firepower, especially considering his past association with the team.
2. Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Purse for Auction: MI has a purse of 17.75 crores.
- Current Squad Dynamics: Despite having experienced bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Jason Behrendorff, MI might consider Starc due to Jofra Archer‘s absence. His international pedigree could make him an attractive option for MI
3. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
- Purse for Auction: RCB, who has a purse of 23.25 cr, faces financial constraints due to Cameron Green‘s trade, but they still have room to make strategic bids.
- Current Squad Dynamics: Starc’s previous stint with RCB saw significant success, and the team might be tempted to bring him back. However, the financial limitations due to spending half of remaining amount on Green and the need to fill multiple slots with that amount might influence their bidding strategy.
Also READ: New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra shares his honest thoughts on his chances in IPL 2024 auction
4. Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Purse for Auction: PBKS might utilize their purse effectively, as they have 29.1 crores at their disposal.
- Current Squad Dynamics: PBKS, known for moments of brilliance but lacking consistency, might target Starc to strengthen their bowling. His ability to take early wickets aligns with PBKS’s potential strategy.
5. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
- Purse for Auction: SRH, with a judicious approach, has 34 crores in their purse.
- Current Squad Dynamics: SRH, relying on impactful overseas players, might consider Starc for his game-changing abilities. His experience could provide leadership to the pace attack, complementing SRH’s existing resources.
