Mitchell Starc in action for KKR [Source: IPLT20.com]
The much-awaited IPL 2025 mega auction is just around the corner. The IPL governing council has already revealed the final list of 574 players who are set to go under the hammer in the two-day auction process in Jeddah on November 24 and 25.
There are twelve marquee players who will grab the maximum attention during the auction. While the eyes will be on Indian superstars- Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer- the likes of Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada have the potential to break the banks in the showpiece event.
Another big name on the list is Mitchell Starc, who could be targeted by several franchises in the mega auction. So, as the event nears, let's analyse and find out the approximate amount the Australian pacer might earn in the auction.
Why Will IPL Franchises Target Mitchell Starc?
Incredible all-phase bowling attributes
- Mitchell Starc is a magnificent operator of the new ball, as he can threaten the top-order batters with his pace and swing.
- Apart from swinging the ball both ways, Starc can challenge the batters with his hard-length bowling. He can also nail yorkers at will, making him a lethal customer across all phases of the game.
Experience and reputation
- Mitchell Starc is one of the most prolific white-ball bowlers in modern-day cricket. In 106 T20 matches, including internationals and the IPL, Starc has scalped 130 wickets at a healthy average and strike rate.
- He has a plethora of experience in white-ball cricket and will be on the radar of several teams owing to his stature and reputation.
Big match temperament
- Mitchell Starc has been one of the most valuable assets for Australia in international cricket. Apart from forming a lethal bowling trio alongside Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, Starc has led the Aussies to multiple ICC titles through his sensational bowling spells.
- The left-arm pacer has a knack for stepping up when it matters the most, that is in knockout matches. He had an ordinary IPL 2024 campaign until the playoffs, where he unleashed sheer carnage and played a significant role in KKR's triumph. So, his big-match temperament is a factor that can increase his value in the mega auction.
Factors That Go Against Mitchell Starc
Lack of commitment
- Despite being a gifted cricketer, Mitchell Starc has let down several IPL teams with his lack of commitment. The fast bowler is the backbone of the Aussie bowling attack, and hence, his availability for the entire season will be determined by his national team's upcoming tour programmes.
Recent death-bowling record
- Although Mitchell Starc has all the ingredients to be regarded as one of the finest all-phase fast bowlers, his recent stats in slog overs certainly raise question marks over his death-bowling skills.
- Since January 2023, Starc has conceded 156 runs in 12.5 overs at a miserable economy of 12.14 in the final five overs in the shortest format. So, the decline in his death-bowling is a factor that can decrease his stocks in the mega auction.
Conclusion: What Will Be Mitchell Starc's Price In IPL 2025 Mega Auction?
As mentioned above, Mitchell Starc continues to be an asset for any T20 team in the world, thanks to his all-phase bowling, experience and big-match temperament. Although the veteran Australian player is not prone to injuries, his lack of commitment and recent death-bowling record could dent his chances in the auction.
However, it's worth mentioning that none other than Jasprit Bumrah is close to unplayable in the batting-friendly modern-day white-ball cricket. So, Starc's pros will likely overhaul his cons, and several teams, especially those who have a huge purse amount and need a frontline pacer- RCB, PBKS and DC- will be engaged in bidding wars to secure his services.
Therefore, considering his demand and the number of franchises that can afford him, Starc is expected to bag a lucrative deal worth 20-25 Crores in the IPL mega auction.