Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has officially announced his participation in the IPL 2024 Auction, marking his return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after an extended hiatus. Starc’s last appearance in the IPL dates back to 2015 when he represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). In his previous IPL stints, Starc played a total of 27 matches, making a notable impact by taking 34 wickets with an impressive bowling average of 20.38.
The news of Starc’s return to the IPL has sent ripples of excitement throughout the cricketing community, as his recent performances for the Australian national team have showcased his prowess in the T20 format. This decision aligns with Starc’s intention to prepare for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, scheduled to take place from June 4 to June 31, 2023, in the West Indies and the USA.
Starc’s IPL journey commenced in 2014, where he played 14 matches and managed to secure 14 wickets with an average of 28.71. The following year, in 2015, he upped the ante, participating in 13 matches and taking a whopping 20 wickets at a remarkable average of 14.55. Unfortunately, a series of injuries prevented him from participating in subsequent IPL seasons, and his focus shifted towards representing his country in international matches.
Participation in the IPL has always been a double-edged sword for foreign players, as it brings the possibility of sustaining injuries due to the rigorous schedule. This may have played a part in Starc’s earlier decisions to limit his involvement in the IPL, emphasizing his commitment to Australian cricket.
The IPL 2024 Auction is eagerly anticipated and is expected to be held in December 2023 in Mumbai. The allure of the IPL for foreign players lies not only in the high financial rewards but also in the unique platform it provides to showcase their skills on a global stage. Starc’s decision to rejoin the IPL suggests a growing interest among Australians in the tournament, which is known for its fierce competition and electrifying atmosphere.
It is worth noting that Starc’s performance in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which precedes the IPL 2024 Auction, will significantly impact his value in the IPL auction. IPL franchises will closely monitor his displays in the World Cup, with a successful tournament potentially leading to a heated bidding war for his services.
Mitchell Starc’s confirmation of his participation in the IPL 2024 Auction has set the cricketing world abuzz. His remarkable track record in previous IPL seasons, coupled with his recent standout performances for Australia, has elevated expectations for his return to the league. As the IPL 2024 Auction approaches, the cricketing community eagerly anticipates the fierce competition among franchises to secure Starc’s services, further fueling the IPL’s reputation as one of the most captivating T20 leagues in the world.
