The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction witnessed an unprecedented bidding war for the world’s premier fast bowlers, as Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins became the most expensive players in the tournament’s history.
Starc, the Australian pace spearhead, was the cynosure of all eyes, with franchises engaging in a fierce bidding battle for his services. It was the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) who eventually secured his signing, shelling out a staggering ₹24.75 crore ($3.2 million) – the highest amount ever paid for a player in the IPL.
“Mitchell Starc is a once-in-a-generation talent, and we are thrilled to have him on board,” said KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan. “His ability to swing the ball at high speeds and his impeccable record in all formats made him an irresistible prospect for us.”
Not to be outdone, Starc’s compatriot and fellow pace ace, Pat Cummins, also created history by becoming the first player to breach the ₹20 crore ($2.6 million) barrier in the IPL auction. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) secured his services for a whopping ₹20.50 crore ($2.7 million), underlining the premium value placed on world-class fast bowling in the cash-rich league.
“Pat Cummins is a genuine match-winner, and we are delighted to have him lead our bowling attack,” said SRH mentor VVS Laxman. “His skill, experience, and leadership qualities make him an invaluable addition to our squad.”
The astronomical fees paid for Starc and Cummins highlight the growing financial might of the IPL and the franchises’ willingness to invest heavily in proven match-winners. With the tournament’s brand value soaring and viewership figures reaching unprecedented heights, the stage is set for more record-breaking deals in the years to come.
As the curtain rises on IPL 2024, all eyes will be on Starc and Cummins to deliver performances befitting their jaw-dropping price tags and cement their status as the most expensive players in the tournament’s illustrious history.
