'Might See Mitchell Starc Back With RCB': Irfan Pathan

image-lpta1ftrMitchell Starc played for RCB in 2014 and 2015 [X.com]

With the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 happening in June next year, the Indian Premier League (IPL) becomes the best arena to practice and hone their skills for the marquee tournament.

A total of 1,166 players have registered themselves for the upcoming IPL 2024 auctions, which will happen on December 19 in Dubai, making it one of the most anticipated events of the month.  

Several players could head to newer franchises, while few could make a return to their old ones as former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan predicts for Australian speedster Mitchell Starc.

Starc, who played in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2014 and 2015, has also put his name in the auction hat after years of staying away from the tournament. As quoted by India Today, Pathan believes that Starc could be purchased by RCB given their work experience and the skillset the pacer brings in. 

Here's what Pathan said

"I really think you might see Mitchell Starc playing for RCB because he was there before. They would want him there as well because being a left-armer, bowling 140-plus, having that extra pace in those types of pitches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium will be of utmost importance for RCB,"

The former CSK player further stated that RCB could potential use Vyshak Vijaykumar as Harshal Patel's replacement, whom they have released. 

"They have a very underrated bowler right now, which people might not be talking about, that's Vyshak Vijaykumar, who came as a replacement. I thought there were quite a few things to like about him. His slower one was very impressive and that is why I think RCB have taken the decision to leave out Harshal Patel," 

Meanwhile, Starc in 27 IPL matches has claimed 34 wickets at an average of 20.38.