introduction
Mitchell Starc, the Australian pace sensation, has been a talking point in the IPL 2024 season, particularly after his remarkable performance against Lucknow Super Giants. Let’s delve into Starc’s journey in IPL 2024, his impact on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team, and his significance in the tournament.
Mitchell Starc’s Arrival in IPL 2024
The IPL 2024 auctions created quite a buzz when Mitchell Starc emerged as the most expensive player in the history of IPL auctions. Kolkata Knight Riders secured his services for a whopping ₹24.75 crore, making him the cornerstone of their bowling attack. However, this move raised eyebrows as Starc, despite being a legend in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), wasn’t considered a top performer in T20 cricket.
Starc’s T20 Record and IPL History
Critics pointed out Starc’s relatively modest T20 record, with 74 wickets in 60 T20Is at a strike rate of 18.2 and an average of 23.33. Moreover, Starc’s last IPL stint was in 2015, where he had a productive season with 20 wickets in 13 matches.
However, nine years is a significant gap in professional cricket, and Starc’s lack of recent T20 experience raised doubts about his IPL performance.
Starc’s Rollercoaster Journey in IPL 2024
Starc’s journey in IPL 2024 has been a rollercoaster ride so far. Before the match against Lucknow Super Giants, Starc had struggled to make an impact for Kolkata Knight Riders. He managed just 2 wickets in 4 matches, conceding 11 runs per over. However, everything changed in the match against LSG.
Starc delivered a stellar performance, taking 3 crucial wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs. Notably, two of his wickets came in the last over, including the prized scalp of Nicholas Pooran, who was batting at 45 off 32 balls. Starc’s performance played a pivotal role in restricting LSG’s total and securing a win for KKR.
The list of Mitchell Starc Auction prices from IPL 2014 to IPL 2015-
| Year | IPL Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | INR 5.00 Cr |
| 2015 | Royal Challengers Bangalore (retain) | INR 5.00 Cr |
| 2024 | Kolkata Knight Riders | INR 24.75 crore |
Starc’s Response to Criticism
Despite facing criticism for his initial performances, Mitchell Starc remained unfazed. After KKR’s win, he expressed his focus on the game rather than external opinions. Starc stated, “I don’t read anything so that doesn’t bother me…I haven’t played a lot of T20 cricket in the last couple of years, so it’s probably taken me a little bit longer than I would have liked to get back into the rhythm of things and make a better impact.”
Starc’s acknowledgment of his rustiness and determination to improve resonated with fans and teammates alike.
Support from KKR Management
Despite Starc’s slow start, Kolkata Knight Riders’ managing director and CEO, Venky Mysore, stood firmly behind him. Mysore emphasized that Starc’s value to the team goes beyond his price tag. He stated, “He’s a superstar and he’s a quality player…his presence in the lineup adds a different dynamic to the team.”
Mysore’s words reflected the team’s confidence in Starc’s abilities and his importance in KKR’s campaign.
Starc’s Performance and Impact
Starc’s journey in IPL 2024 exemplifies the ups and downs of professional cricket. While his initial performances fell short of expectations, his match-winning spell against Lucknow Super Giants showcased his class and skill. Starc’s ability to bounce back from criticism and deliver when it mattered most underscores his value to the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Mitchell Starc Last 10 IPL Innings 2024
| 1 | Match 10 vs RCB | 0/47 |
| 2 | Match 4 vs SRH | 0/53 |
Mitchell Starc IPL Career
Looking back at Starc’s IPL career, he started with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2014, where he was bought for INR 5 crore. He continued with RCB in 2015 before joining Kolkata Knight Riders in 2018. His auction price soared to INR 24.75 crore in IPL 2024, solidifying his status as one of the most sought-after players in the tournament.
Starc’s IPL Stats and Records
Throughout his IPL career, Starc has played 27 matches, taking 34 wickets with an economy rate of 7.17. Despite limited appearances, his impact on the field has been significant, with crucial breakthroughs and tight spells under pressure.
| Year | Mat | Balls | Runs | Wickets | 4w | 5w |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 5 | 18 | 182 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| 2015 | 13 | 258 | 291 | 20 | 1 | 0 |
| 2014 | 14 | 322 | 402 | 14 | 0 | 0 |
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Mitchell Starc’s journey in IPL 2024 embodies the essence of cricket – resilience, determination, and skill. While his hefty price tag raised doubts initially, his performance against Lucknow Super Giants silenced critics and reaffirmed his status as a top-quality bowler. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Starc to see if he can maintain his form and lead Kolkata Knight Riders to victory.
