Australia pacer Mitchell Starc is eagerly anticipating his return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the 2024 season. Starc, who last participated in the tournament nine years ago with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the 2014 and 2015 seasons, is set to join the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as the most expensive player in the recent IPL auctions, securing a whopping ₹24.75 crores. Interestingly, Starc acknowledged his previous stint with the RCB and appreciated playing under the leadership of Virat Kohli, who served as the captain from 2013 until 2021.
In a clip released by Star Sports on their official X handle, the Australian pacer expressed his excitement about returning to the IPL, marking his comeback after the 2015 season. Mitchell Starc also shared insights into his time with Virat Kohli, revealing that he got to know the Indian star not only on the field but also off the field during their previous association.
‘Humble On The Field, Competitive Off It’
When asked about his thoughts on Virat Kohli, Starc described the Indian star as a "humble and warm character off the field and fiercely competitive on it." He suggested that Kohli displays intense competitiveness during matches but is amiable and down-to-earth away from the cricketing arena.
“I do remember fondly the couple of years that I had at the RCB alongside Virat. He was the captain as well. That was the first time I got to know him properly, particularly off the field. He is such a different person off the field. Such a humble and warm character off the field and then fiercely competitive on it. I remember that the most about him,” Starc said in the video.
Watch The Video Here:
Mitchell Starc made the decision to abstain from participating in the IPL since the 2015 season, prioritising the red-ball format. His focus on Test cricket proved crucial for Australia's success as he played a significant role in Australia's triumph in the World Test Championship 2021-2023.