In a dazzling display of big-money auctions, Australian fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins etched their names in the annals of Indian Premier League (IPL) history on Tuesday. The high-stakes Twenty20 tournament witnessed Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad shattering records, making Starc and Cummins the most expensive players ever in the IPL.
Record-breaking Bids:
Mitchell Starc, making a sensational return to the IPL after an eight-year hiatus, stole the limelight by fetching a staggering 247.5 million rupees ($2.98 million) in a bidding war with Kolkata Knight Riders. This remarkable sum set an all-time IPL auction record, prompting the franchise to joyfully announce, “We won, Mr Starc!”
Not to be outdone, Pat Cummins had earlier in the day set the bar high when Sunrisers Hyderabad secured his services for a whopping 205 million rupees ($2.47 million). The World Cup-winning skipper’s record was short-lived but reflected the immense value placed on his skill and leadership.
Previous Record and Enthusiastic Welcome:
Before Starc and Cummins, England all-rounder Sam Curran held the record as the most expensive player, having been acquired for $2.23 million last year by Punjab Kings. Cummins, delighted to join Sunrisers Hyderabad, expressed his excitement in a video, saying, “Can’t wait to get started.”
Australians’ World Cup Triumph:
Starc and Cummins played pivotal roles in Australia’s recent ODI World Cup victory in November, defeating hosts India in a thrilling final at Ahmedabad. Cummins, particularly lauded for his leadership, silenced a crowd of nearly 100,000 with his crucial dismissal of star batsman Virat Kohli.
Auction Highlights:
Both Australians entered the auction with a base price of $240,000, signaling the top tier at which players can initiate bidding. New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell also made waves, securing a $1.6 million deal with Chennai Super Kings, following his standout performances in the World Cup, where he scored two centuries against India.
The IPL 2024 auction in Dubai witnessed historic highs as Starc and Cummins became the most expensive players in the league’s history. The jaw-dropping deals reflect the intense competition for top-tier talent and set the stage for an exciting season ahead. Cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the dynamic performances these Australian pacers will bring to the IPL arena.
Afsheen Gohar believes in the power of clear, straightforward writing. Her blog posts tackle everyday topics with relatable insights and easy-to-follow advice. With a conversational style, she makes complex subjects feel understandable. She’s dedicated to sharing knowledge and empowering readers to take action. Find her latest posts on trending in social.
