In a stunning turn of events at the IPL 2024 auction, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, renowned Australian fast bowlers and World Cup champions, fetched unprecedented prices of Rs 24.75 crore (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Rs 20.50 crore (Sunrisers Hyderabad) respectively.
The auction spotlight shone brightest on Starc and Cummins, as they surpassed the previous record for the most expensive buy in IPL history. Despite Starc’s absence from the IPL since 2015, the Kolkata Knight Riders displayed unbridled enthusiasm by securing his services with a winning bid of Rs 24.75 crore. Notably, Australia’s cricket captain, Pat Cummins, experienced a fierce bidding war before being acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for a record-breaking sum of Rs 20.5 crore.
Chennai Super Kings made a significant investment in New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, sealing the deal at Rs 14 crore. Harshal Patel emerged as the third-highest pick, with a price tag of Rs 11.75 crore, while Cricket World Cup sensation Rachin Ravindra found a new home with CSK for Rs 1.8 crore.
In a surprising turn, seasoned players Steven Smith and Rilee Rossouw remained unsold, along with Indian players Karun Nair and Manish Pandey. The auction, held at the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai, witnessed the participation of 332 players as the 10 franchises eagerly bolstered their squads for the upcoming season.
The intense bidding process showcased the determination of franchises to secure top talent, and the jaw-dropping sums spent on Starc and Cummins added an extra layer of excitement to the IPL 2024 auction. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the unfolding of the new season, the strategic moves made by franchises promise an electrifying and competitive tournament ahead.
