IPL 2024 Auction: Mitchell Starc says 'it was a shock' after record-breaking KKR deal

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Australia pacer Mitchell Starc, who became the most expensive IPL player in history, says it was a shock how much money he fetched at the IPL 2024 auction.

Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders in the auction, who paid a whopping Rs. 24.75 crore to ensure his services in the IPL 2024 edition.

Starc was part of an intense bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans, and it was the former who stayed firm and got their man with immense resilience. The player shared a heartfelt message with the KKR fans after his signing.

"Hey, KKR fans, I'm thrilled to be joining the team for this year's IPL. And I can't wait to get to Eden Gardens to experience the home fans, the home crowd and the atmosphere. I look forward to seeing you then. Ami KKR," Starc said in a video uploaded on X.

The Australian pacer also states it was a shock to see such intense bidding for him and says he is thrilled to be back for the Knight Riders.

"It's been a little while since I've been involved, but I'm really excited to get my name in the auction and to be joining KKR this upcoming season. So, yeah, thrilled to be joining," Starc said during a chat with JioCinema after his record-breaking move.

"Yeah, it was a shock, if you call it. But, my wife, Alyssa Healy, is actually over in India with the women's team," the new KKR star added.

Incidentally, Starc was bought by KKR in the IPL 2018 auction for Rs. 9.40 crore, but he didn't take part in that edition for them. But it seems the wait will be over for the KKR fans as the 34-year-old looks set to dazzle the upcoming season for them.

Kolkata Knight Riders have formed a strong squad for IPL 2024 as they also signed the likes of Sherfane Rutherford, Manish Pandey and others in the auction.