The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricketing extravaganza; it’s a spectacle where fortunes are made and records are shattered. The IPL 2024 auction, despite being a mini-auction, proved just that, as it witnessed jaw-dropping amounts being shelled out to secure the services of some of the most sought-after players in the cricketing world. Let’s delve into the list of the top 6 costliest buys that grabbed headlines and broke records.
Mitchell Starc – Kolkata Knight Riders – Rs 24.75 Crore:
The left-arm quick from Australia made history by becoming the most expensive player ever in the IPL. Kolkata Knight Riders secured Starc’s services for a staggering Rs 24.75 crore, breaking all previous records. With a base price of Rs 2 crore, Starc’s acquisition sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity, reaffirming his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world.
Pat Cummins – Sunrisers Hyderabad – Rs 20.50 Crore:
Another Australian stalwart, Pat Cummins, fetched a whopping Rs 20.50 crore as Sunrisers Hyderabad splurged big to bolster their bowling attack. Cummins, known for his pace and aggression, was a prized asset in the auction, having previously showcased his talent in the IPL and on the international stage.
Daryl Mitchell – Chennai Super Kings – Rs 14 Crore:
The New Zealand batter made headlines with his hefty price tag of Rs 14 crore as he joined the ranks of Chennai Super Kings. Mitchell’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an attractive prospect for franchises, and Chennai wasted no time in securing his services to bolster their squad.
Harshal Patel – Punjab Kings – Rs 11.75 Crore:
Among the Indian contingent, pacer Harshal Patel fetched a significant sum of Rs 11.75 crore, courtesy of Punjab Kings. Patel’s impressive performances in domestic cricket and his recent exploits in the IPL made him a hot property in the auction, with Punjab Kings eager to add firepower to their bowling lineup.
Alzarri Joseph – Royal Challengers Bangalore – Rs 11.50 Crore:
The West Indian speedster, Alzarri Joseph, attracted a bid of Rs 11.50 crore from Royal Challengers Bangalore, highlighting the franchise’s intent to bolster their pace attack. Joseph’s ability to generate pace and extract bounce made him a valuable addition to RCB’s squad as they aimed for glory in the upcoming season.
Spencer Johnson – Gujarat Titans – Rs 10 Crore:
Australian speedster Spencer Johnson made his mark in the IPL auction with Gujarat Titans securing his services for Rs 10 crore. Johnson’s raw pace and potential caught the attention of franchises, with Gujarat Titans investing heavily in the talented youngster to bolster their bowling arsenal.
Apart from these top 6 costliest buys, several other players, both international and domestic, fetched significant sums, underlining the competitive nature of the IPL auction. With such talent at their disposal, franchises will be eager to hit the ground running as they vie for supremacy in the upcoming season of the IPL. As the anticipation builds and the excitement mounts, cricket fans can expect nothing short of a thrilling spectacle when the IPL 2024 kicks off.