Xtra Time Web Desk: The IPL mini auction in Dubai set mega records, with a total of 72 players sold for a whopping sum of Rs 230.45 crore on Tuesday, December 19 Australian cricketers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc emerged as the most expensive players ever. Kolkata Knight Riders acquired Starc for Rs 24.75 crore, while Sunrisers Hyderabad secured Cummins for Rs 20.50 crore. Here is a look at the top five most expensive players in the history of the IPL auction.
Mitchell Starc (Rs 24.75 crore KKR) – Australian pacer Mitchell Starc created a buzz during the IPL 2024 auction as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured him after a fierce bidding war with Gujarat Titans for a staggering Rs 24.75 crore, well above his Rs 2 crore base price. Starc, expressing his excitement, revealed his eagerness to play under captain Shreyas Iyer. Despite not participating in the IPL for last 8 seasons, the 33-year-old, a key member of Australia’s recent World Cup-winning squad in India, is set to bolster KKR’s bowling attack. Starc’s return to the T20 League marks a significant move for KKR, making him the costliest player in the tournament’s history and potentially elevating the team’s performance.
Pat Cummins (Rs 20.5 cr, SRH) ¬- Australia’s ODI team captain, Pat Cummins, emerged as the second costliest buy in the IPL 2024 auction, with Sunrisers Hyderabad securing his services for a whopping Rs 20.54 crore. Cummins was involved in an intense bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Having skipped the 2023 season to prepare for the Ashes, Cummins fills a crucial role as SRH sought a quality overseas fast bowler to complement their Indian pace trio of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, T Natarajan and Umran Malik. His recent stellar performance in the World Cup final highlights his potential impact in IPL 2024.
Daryl Mitchell (Rs 14 cr, CSK) – New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell became the highest costliest buy in the IPL Auction 2024, fetching a significant Rs 14 crore bid from Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Son of a rugby player, Mitchell’s prowess against spin bowlers made him a sought-after asset. CSK engaged in a competitive bidding war with Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals before successfully acquiring Mitchell, who entered the auction with a base price of Rs 1 crore. With Ben Stokes potentially unavailable, CSK aimed to bolster their middle order, and Mitchell’s inclusion aligns with that strategic objective, adding a quality presence to the team for the upcoming IPL season.
Harshal Patel (Rs 11.7 cr, PBKS) – Harshal Patel emerged as one of the most sought-after Indian fast bowlers in the IPL 2024 auction. The Punjab Kings secured his services for a staggering Rs 11.7 crore, making him the costliest Indian buy of the day. The 33-year-old, coming off a successful stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 2021 season where he clinched the highest wicket-taker title, began with a base price of Rs 2 crore. A tense battle unfolded between Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans before the former clinched the deal, emphasizing Patel’s value and the intense competition among franchises for quality fast bowling talent.
Alzarri Joseph (Rs 11.5 cr, RCB) – In a fierce competition for fast bowling talent, Royal Challengers Bangalore secured West Indian quick Alzarri Joseph for a significant Rs 11.5 crore, overcoming challenges from Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL Auction 2024. The 27-year-old, formerly with Gujarat Titans, brings versatility to the RCB bowling attack. Alzarri played a crucial role in helping Titans clinch the IPL crown in 2022, and RCB aims for him to replicate that success in their squad. With this acquisition, RCB enhances their pace bowling options, banking on Joseph’s skills and experience to make an impact in the upcoming season.
Fore more sports news: Click here