The Most Expensive Buys That Made History: IPL 2024 Auction
The IPL 2024 auction proved to be a game-changer, shattering records in terms of the massive amounts of money spent to acquire star players. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, both Australian bowlers, made the biggest splashes in the auction, leaving fans and experts alike in awe. Not only did they break the ₹20 crore barrier, but they also rewrote the history books with their mind-boggling price tags.
Mitchell Starc: The Highest Bid in IPL History
Mitchell Starc, the Australian left-arm quick, created history by becoming the most expensive player in the IPL’s history. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) snatched him up for a staggering ₹24.75 crore. Starc’s return to the cash-rich T20 League after several seasons away was met with much anticipation. His inclusion in the KKR squad is expected to bolster their bowling attack, which has often lacked a dominant pace bowler. Despite prioritizing national team commitments over franchise tournaments, Starc’s exceptional talent and previous IPL experience make him a valuable asset for KKR.
Pat Cummins: A Record-Breaking Purchase
Not to be outdone, Pat Cummins, the Australian pace sensation, also made headlines with his record-breaking price tag. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) acquired Cummins for an astounding ₹20.50 crore, making him the first player in IPL history to surpass the ₹20 crore mark. Cummins’ leadership and exceptional performances on the international stage, including leading Australia to World Cup glory in India, played a significant role in his high demand. SRH’s desperate need for a quality overseas fast bowler and Cummins’ proven track record made this acquisition a game-changer for the team.
Daryl Mitchell: A Spin Wizard Joins Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made no compromises in securing the services of Daryl Mitchell, the talented New Zealand all-rounder. CSK splurged ₹14 crore to acquire Mitchell’s services, recognizing his exceptional ability to handle spin bowling. Mitchell’s reputation as a spin wizard and his impressive performance in previous tournaments made him one of the most sought-after players in the auction. With Ben Stokes likely to be absent next season, CSK needed a reliable middle-order batsman, and Mitchell perfectly fits the bill.
Harshal Patel: Punjab Kings’ Expensive Indian Buy
Punjab Kings (PBKS) proved their determination to strengthen their fast-bowling department by acquiring Harshal Patel for a hefty sum of ₹11.75 crore. Patel, who had a remarkable season with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021, emerged as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament. PBKS engaged in a fierce bidding war with Gujarat Titans before securing Patel’s services. The 33-year-old pacer’s ability to consistently take wickets and deliver under pressure makes him a valuable addition to PBKS.
Alzarri Joseph: The West Indian Sensation
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made a smart move by bagging Alzarri Joseph for ₹11.50 crore. The West Indian quick, known for his raw pace and ability to provide variety to the RCB attack, was a crucial member of the Gujarat Titans team that won the IPL crown in 2022. RCB hopes that Joseph will replicate his success with them and contribute to their quest for an IPL title. His inclusion adds depth and diversity to the team’s bowling lineup.
The Rising Stars: Uncapped Indian Players
While the big names dominated the headlines, the IPL 2024 auction also saw several uncapped Indian players rake in significant amounts. Shubham Dubey, Shivam Mavi, and Sameer Rizvi were among the standout performers who attracted substantial bids from various franchises. These young talents, with their immense potential and impressive performances in domestic cricket, proved that they are ready to make their mark on the grand stage of the IPL.
IPL 2024 Expensive Players List
Here is a comprehensive list of the most expensive players in the IPL 2024 auction:
₹10 Crore and Above
- Mitchell Starc – Kolkata Knight Riders – ₹24.75 Crore
- Pat Cummins – Sunrisers Hyderabad – ₹20.50 Crore
- Daryl Mitchell – Chennai Super Kings – ₹14 Crore
- Harshal Patel – Punjab Kings – ₹11.75 Crore
- Alzarri Joseph – Royal Challengers Bangalore – ₹11.50 Crore
₹5 Crore to ₹10 Crore
- Spencer Johnson – Gujarat Titans – ₹10 Crore
- Sameer Rizvi – Chennai Super Kings – ₹8.40 Crore
- Rilee Rossouw – Punjab Kings – ₹8 Crore
- Rovman Powell – Rajasthan Royals – ₹7.40 Crore
- Shahrukh Khan – Gujarat Titans – ₹7.40 Crore
- Kumar Kushagra – Delhi Capitals – ₹7.2 Crore
- Travis Head – Sunrisers Hyderabad – ₹6.80 Crore
- Shivam Mavi – Lucknow Super Giants – ₹6.40 Crore
- Umesh Yadav – Gujarat Titans – ₹5.8 Crore
- Shubham Dubey – Rajasthan Royals – ₹5.80 Crore
- Gerald Coetzee – Mumbai Indians – ₹5 Crore
- Yash Dayal – Royal Challengers Bangalore – ₹5 Crore
- Jhye Richardson – Delhi Capitals – ₹5 Crore
Conclusion
The IPL 2024 auction has undoubtedly left fans and experts buzzing with excitement. The massive sums spent on star players like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins demonstrate the IPL’s ever-growing popularity and financial clout. Additionally, the emergence of talented uncapped Indian players further highlights the depth of cricketing talent in the country. As the teams gear up for the upcoming season, it remains to be seen how these expensive acquisitions will shape the fortunes of their respective franchises. The stage is set, and fans around the world eagerly await the action-packed spectacle that is the IPL.
