Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed skepticism regarding Kolkata Knight Riders’ record-breaking expenditure of Rs 24.75 crore on Mitchell Starc for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Starc, making a return to the IPL after a five-year hiatus, became the costliest player in IPL auction history, sparking discussions about the value of such a hefty investment.
Gavaskar, in a candid assessment of Starc’s acquisition, opined that no player justifies such exorbitant spending, stressing that performance on the field must match the price tag. He emphasized that for Starc’s signing to be deemed worthwhile, he must consistently deliver match-winning performances, especially against formidable opponents like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Starc, known for his fiery pace and lethal bowling, previously represented Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL in 2014 and 2015. His stint with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2018 was marred by injury, preventing him from showcasing his skills on the IPL stage. However, his recent form in international cricket, including a notable contribution to Australia’s ODI World Cup triumph in 2023, has bolstered his reputation as a top-tier fast bowler.
The Australian speedster’s return to the IPL after an eight-year absence has generated significant buzz, with his past performances hinting at his potential to make a significant impact on the tournament. Starc’s exceptional bowling statistics from previous IPL seasons underscore his ability to dismantle batting line-ups and emerge as a match-winner for his team.
Despite the anticipation surrounding Starc’s return, Gavaskar’s comments underscore the scrutiny that accompanies such astronomical investments in IPL auctions. The pressure will be on Starc to validate Kolkata Knight Riders’ faith in him by delivering standout performances and justifying his record-breaking price tag on the IPL stage.
As the cricketing world awaits Starc’s IPL comeback, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the Australian speedster, who faces the daunting task of living up to the expectations set by his record-breaking acquisition.
