In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Australian Mitchell Starc has become the most expensive player in history, breaking previous records. In the players’ auction on Tuesday, Kolkata Knight Riders put in a massive bid of Rs 24.75 crore to secure his services. The previous record, briefly held by Australia captain Pat Cummins, who Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired for Rs 20.50 crore, was surpassed by Starc. Cummins had a base price of Rs 2 crore. He had just led Australia to victory in the 50-overs World Cup in India.

The Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings were initially interested in him but withdrew when a bidding war broke out. Cummins was being pursued by Royal Challengers Bangalore as well, but Hyderabad was able to sign the fast bowler. The England all-rounder Sam Curran, acquired by Punjab Kings for Rs 18.5 crore last year, was the subject of the previous highest bid at the IPL auction.

Hyderabad’s acquisition of Cummins also gives them options for leadership, though head coach Daniel Vettori has been silent on the subject. Before the IPL, Vettori said, “There’s a lot of cricket left.” Nearer that time, we’ll make a choice.” After an eight-year absence from the IPL, Mitchell Starc, a left-arm quick, made a big impression on Mumbai and Delhi.

Nevertheless, both teams withdrew as the bidding heated up, and Kolkata emerged as the successful bidder for the 33-year-old. Venky Mysore, the CEO of Kolkata, explained their vigorous pursuit of Starc, saying, “You should expect this.” Player fees and salary caps will rise in tandem with the growth of the IPL.”

Chennai also made a big buy when they paid Rs 14 crore, ten times his base price, to acquire Daryl Mitchell, a batter from New Zealand. In addition, Harshal Patel, an Indian seamer, signed a Rs 11.75 crore contract with Punjab Kings. The Indian Cricket Board has not yet released the dates for the tournament, but this year’s IPL auction was the first to take place outside of India. It will likely occur in March or May of the following year.

IPL 2024 most expensive players: List of top 5 costliest buys in auction

1. Mitchell Starc – Kolkata Knight Riders – Rs 24.75 Crore (2024)
2. Pat Cummins – Sunrisers Hyderabad – Rs 20.50 Crore (2024)
3. Darryl Mitchell- Chennai Super Kings – Rs 14.00 crore (2024) 
4. Harshal Patel -Punjab Kings – Rs 11.75 crore (2024) 
5. Alzarri Joseph- Royal Challengers – Rs 11.50 (2024)