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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir has given his verdict as to who will be the X-factor for his team in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Gambhir has expressed strong belief in Mitchell Starc's ability to deliver for the team in the 17th season of the IPL. Gambhir views Starc as a potential game-changer, capable of significantly influencing KKR's performance.
Notably, KKR secured Starc's services for a record-breaking INR 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction, making him the most expensive player in IPL history.
This marked Starc's comeback to the IPL after a nine-year absence. His last appearance was with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015. KKR had previously attempted to sign Starc in 2018 for INR 9.40 crore. However, a right leg injury forced him to withdraw from the tournament.
Gautam Gambhir declares Mitchell Starc as KKR's X-Factor
Arriving in Kolkata for the season, KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir addressed concerns regarding the high price tag associated with Mitchell Starc.
Gambhir confidently asserted that the hefty sum won't hinder Starc's performance. He also went on to say that Starc will be KKR's X-Factor in IPL 2024. Gambhir expressed his hope that Starc will replicate his world-class bowling form displayed on the international stage for the KKR.
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“I had already said on the auction table that he [Starc] is an X-factor and I am sure he is going to deliver. And there’s no such pressure of a price tag. I hope that what he has done in international cricket, he can do the same for KKR,” the former KKR skipper said.
Starc's IPL Track Record
This isn't Starc's first foray into the IPL. He previously played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2014 and 2015 seasons, taking 34 wickets in 27 matches with an impressive average of 20.38 and an economy rate of 7.17. Returning after a long absence, Starc aims to make a significant impact this season.
Gambhir's passion for KKR
Beyond the cricketing aspect, Gambhir highlighted his deep connection with the KKR. He views the team as more than just a franchise. Acknowledging the high expectations associated with the team, Gambhir expressed his resolve to fulfill them and bring joy to the passionate KKR fans
“I have always mentioned that KKR to me is not a franchise, but an emotion. I am thus happy to be back. I know there will be expectations and I hope to live up to it and make the fans happy,” Gambhir concluded.
Gambhir boasts a successful history with the Kolkata Knight Riders, having led them to IPL victories in 2012 and 2014. He is also the team's highest run scorer, accumulating 3,345 runs in 122 matches with a commendable average of 31.26 and a strike rate of 124.72. Former India captain previously served as a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the past two seasons. However, he opted to return to the Knight Riders for the upcoming IPL 2024.
KKR unfortunately missed out on the playoffs in the last two seasons after reaching the finals in 2021. The upcoming season holds promise with Shreyas Iyer leading the team. Their campaign kicks off with a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Eden Gardens on March 23.
However, they will only play three matches in the initial phase of the tournament.
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