Sun Nov 24 21:28:03 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Capitals Secure Starc for IPL 2025 in Thrilling Auction Battle
**Mumbai, India** – The Delhi Capitals emerged victorious in a fierce bidding war for Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Starc, who fetched a staggering ₹24.75 crore last year, was acquired by the Capitals for ₹11.75 crore, a significant drop from his previous price.
The auction saw intense competition from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who previously owned Starc, and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), both pushing the price upwards. However, the Capitals, demonstrating their commitment to securing the left-arm pacer, ultimately won the bidding war. Mumbai Indians opened the bidding, but the Capitals’ initial bid of ₹6.75 crore set the tone for their determined pursuit.
Despite a relatively less impressive performance in the initial matches of IPL 2024, marked by a high economy rate, Starc’s contribution in the playoffs was instrumental in KKR’s third IPL title victory. In IPL 2024, he played 14 matches and took 17 wickets.
With this acquisition, the Delhi Capitals have significantly bolstered their pace attack. Starc is their first signing of the mega auction, and the team still retains ₹61.25 crore in their purse after the purchase. The Capitals’ updated squad now includes Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Porel, and Mitchell Starc.
Other notable acquisitions at the auction include Kagiso Rabada, secured by Gujarat Titans for ₹10.75 crore, and Arshdeep Singh who was bought for a hefty ₹18 crore.
First Piper 