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The news of Mitchell Starc's potential release from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the 2025 IPL mega auction has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Australian pace maestro, who had a phenomenal return to the league after an eight-year absence, was signed by KKR for a record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore last year, making him the most expensive player in IPL history.
Starc's performance in the 2024 season lived up to the hype. He was a key component in KKR's third IPL title victory, delivering a match-winning performance in the final against Hyderabad. His two crucial wickets and an impressive economy of just 4.66 across his three overs were instrumental in restricting the opposition to a meager 113 runs. This stellar performance earned him the Player of the Match title, adding to his previous award in the playoffs, making him the first player in IPL history to win two Player of the Match awards in a single playoff run.
Across the entire season, Starc proved his worth as a strike bowler, claiming 17 wickets in 14 matches. His 2024 season was a remarkable comeback, considering his last IPL appearance was back in 2015 with Royal Challengers Bangalore, where he had impressed with 20 wickets in 13 games. Starc's return to the IPL in 2018 was marred by an injury that prevented him from playing for KKR, despite being signed for Rs 9.4 crore. However, in 2024, he finally achieved redemption on IPL's grand stage, etching his name into IPL folklore.
Despite his phenomenal performance and contribution to KKR's success, the franchise has decided to release him ahead of the 2025 auction. While the reasons for this decision remain unclear, it is likely that KKR is looking to make changes to its squad for the upcoming season, potentially aiming to accommodate younger players or adjust its strategic approach. Fans are now eagerly awaiting to see where Starc's next chapter will unfold, as he seeks to continue his impactful career in the world of cricket.
Source: Who will KKR retain before IPL auction - Mitchell Starc likely to be released