The 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) promises to be an action-packed tournament. One of things that will garner a lot of attention is the return of Australian left-arm tearaway quick Mitchell Starc.
Starc was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the IPL 2024 auctions as the franchise shelled out INR 24.75 crore to secure his services.
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That is now the highest fee ever paid by any franchise for a player, beating the INR 20.5 crore fee paid by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Starc's Australian teammate Pat Cummins at the same auctions.
Ahead of IPL 2024, Starc shared his thoughts on returning to IPL after a long hiatus.
MORE: What does KKR's squad for IPL 2024 look like?
What did Mitchell Starc say about his comeback to IPL?
Speaking to cricket.com.au, Starc mentioned that he was excited to play in IPL after eight long years, and that he is looking forward to playing for KKR.
It's been eight years, I think. Back to KKR where I was supposed to be in 2018. So I'll be back there for the chance to pull on the gold and purple. I guess my memories are a few and far between of back in 2014 and 2015 with RCB but yeah, really excited to get stuck in. Obviously, a new group of players. A bunch of guys I certainly haven't met or been able to work with before.
The 34-year-old bowler also went on to add that IPL is the "best T20 league in the world" as he would be playing with and against some top-quality international stars.
A couple of guys that I've, international guys that I've played against and come across. Yeah, it's gonna be exciting. It's definitely a new challenge. But yeah, it'll be exciting. It's always a bit of a circus when it is the best T20 league in the world. So, yeah I look forward to it."
When do Kolkata Knight Riders play they first game in IPL 2024?
KKR will play their first game of IPL 2024 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), led by their new captain and record signing Pat Cummins.
The match will be played at KKR's home ground at Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 23.
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