KKR Eyes Arshdeep Singh as Starc Replacement in IPL 2025 Mega Auction
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, are set to undergo a significant rebuild in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. Having released a majority of their title-winning squad, KKR is reportedly targeting Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh as a potential replacement for Mitchell Starc.
Starc, the Australian pacer, was a key performer for KKR in IPL 2024, winning the Player of the Match award in both the Qualifier 1 and the final. However, with Starc released, KKR is reportedly keen on acquiring Arshdeep, who emerged as India’s highest wicket-taker in the T20 World Cup 2024.
According to a report by Mint, KKR is prepared to go all out for Arshdeep in the mega auction. The left-arm pacer impressed in IPL 2024, taking 19 wickets in 14 games, and followed it up with 17 wickets in the T20 World Cup 2024.
However, Arshdeep’s economy rate in IPL 2024 was over 10, which could be a concern for potential suitors. Nevertheless, as arguably the most sought-after Indian pacer in the auction pool, Arshdeep is expected to attract significant interest and could command a price tag exceeding Rs 15 crore.
Arshdeep has represented Punjab Kings since 2019 but was not retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction. However, with Rs 110.5 crore in their auction purse and four Right to Match (RTM) cards at their disposal, Punjab Kings could still retain Arshdeep.
KKR has already retained two high-quality spinners in Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, as well as two pacers in Harshit Rana and Andre Russell. While Starc’s absence will be felt, Arshdeep could provide a similar solution. KKR will enter the mega auction with Rs 51 crore in their purse.
Starc, who was bought for an IPL record fee of Rs 25 crore in IPL 2024, had a slow start to the tournament. However, he came into his own in the latter stages, tearing apart Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 1 and the final, claiming a combined five wickets in those two games.
