The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir and KKR Managing Director Venky Mysore created history when they secured the services of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc for a whopping INR 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction.
Less than two hours ago Starc’s bid, the Kaviya Maran’s Sunrisers Hyderabad had made Pat Cummins the most expensive ever IPL player with INR 20.5 crore. However, with KKR looking for a marquee overseas pacer, and having a huge budget, Gautam Gambhir remained determined to acquire Starc, who, barring any injury in the coming months, would make his return to the IPL after 8 long years.
KKR staved off competition from the Gujarat Titans as both franchises locked into a fierce bidding war that lasted about 17 minutes. GT withdrew at KKR’s bid of INR 24.75 crore and Gautam Gambhir was all smiles – a rare moment – after the hammer went down.
After the auction, Star Sports’ host Jatin Sapru, who has worked with Gambhir for a long time as a broadcaster, made a hilarious reaction.
When Gambhir and Venky Mysore were sitting in a room after the auction, Jatin Sapru came and pleaded with Gambhir to give him 2 crore as well. Everyone in the room burst into laughter, even Gambhir had a hearty laugh at it. Gambhir then gestured for Sapru to ask Venky Mysore.
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Gautam Gambhir explains why KKR bid such a huge amount for Mitchell Starc
After the auction, Gambhir explained that Starc is a proper “game-changer”, a fast bowler adept in taking wickets both with the new ball in the powerplay and in the death overs. The 2011 World Cup winner alluded at Starc’s huge experience of handling pressure at the international level and leading Australia’s bowling attack.
“He’s a game-changer, no doubt. A player who can bowl well at the beginning, handle pressure in the final overs, and, most importantly, take charge of leading the team’s attack,” Gambhir said.
“He will greatly support our two talented domestic bowlers in crucial moments. You need someone to guide them through tough situations, and Starc fulfills that role.”
