Mitchell Starc, who was signed during the IPL 2024 auction for an incredible sum of INR 24.75 crore, has straightforward expectations from Gautam Gambhir.
When the new season kicks off on March 22, Mitchell Starc—the most expensive acquisition in Indian Premier League (IPL) history—is sure to be in the spotlight. As the team attempts to win its third T20 league championship in history, the Australian star, who was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 24.75 crore at the auction, is anticipated to deliver some spectacular performances. KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir disagrees, despite the fact that many believe Starc’s high price tag will put him under more strain.
The Knight Riders’ goal remains to break their trophy drought. Gambhir’s only hope is that Starc continues to accomplish what he has done for Australia over time.
“I don’t think the price will put him under more strain. “I just hope he can do for KKR what he does for Australia in international cricket,” Gambhir said after arriving in Kolkata for the T20 competition.
Gambhir joined KKR after departing as a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants franchise. Gambhir even resigned from his position as a politician with the Bhartiya Janata Party before the launch of the IPL, underlining his priorities.
“I’ve always said that KKR is more of an emotion for me than a franchise. I am thus pleased to be back.”
“I know there will be expectations and I hope to live up to it and make the fans happy,” Gambhir went on to say.
Gambhir was the captain of the Knight Riders when they last won the IPL. Since the southpaw left the franchise in 2017, they have yet to taste T20 league victory. Though the Knight Riders came close to capturing the title when they reached the tournament’s final in 2021, their results in Gambhir’s absence have been somewhat average.
The franchise’s administration is hoping to rekindle the previous magic with Gambhir’s comeback.
