There’s a humorous clip on the internet getting a lot of attention. Jatin Sapru, a TV host, is in it, humorously asking Gautam Gambhir, a mentor of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹2-3 crore. Everything comes back to the ₹24.75 crore KKR shelled out to snag Mitchell Starc at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction.
The IPL 2024 auction took place in Dubai on December 19. KKR, having a purse starting with a solid ₹32.7 crore, invested a staggering sum in the Australian left-arm fast bowler Starc. This purchase set a record. Starc became the priceiest acquisition in IPL history.
Sapru can be seen approaching a grinning Gautam Gambhir in the viral video and asking him to:
“Prabhu 2-3 crore dedo (God please give me Rs 2-3 crore).”
The TV host’s lively actions provoked laughter among those in the room.
Notably, the Indian T20 league will witness Starc’s return, who has been absent since 2015. His record includes participation in 27 matches and acquiring 34 wickets, making his average 20.38. His economy rate stands at 7.17.
In addition to Starc, Pat Cummins, the leader of the Australian Test and ODI teams, also commanded a high price at the IPL 2024 auction. The right-arm bowler made a big splash, and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) snatched him for ₹20.50 crore.
Gautam Gambhir explains why Starc is worth every penny for KKR
Gautam Gambhir has supported the team’s decision, despite some detractors and supporters questioning if KKR overpaid for Starc’s services (paying ₹24.75 crore).
The team coach made the following remarks to JioCinema on Kolkata’s choice to pay top dollar for the seasoned Australian left-arm pacer:
“He is an X-factor, there is no doubt about that. Someone who can bowl with the new ball, bowl in the death overs and more importantly, someone who can lead the attack. He is going to be of massive help to our two domestic bowlers because both of them are very talented and you need someone to help them out in the middle and Starc covers those bases.”
Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir added:
“It is not only about his bowling but also about leading the attack and helping all guys around him. So, somebody will have to pay for it.”
Gautam Gambhir
Mitchell Starc, who is 33, has participated in 121 T20 matches. He impressively took 170 wickets. His average is 19.54, and his economy rate stands at 7.45.