‘He is such a different person off the field’ – Mitchell Starc recalls RCB days with Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli and Mitchell Starc. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

The Australian fast-bowling sensation, Mitchell Starc, shared his excitement about returning to the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Kolkata Knight Riders after a lengthy hiatus of nine years. Starc, who previously represented the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2014 and 2015, has been acquired by KKR for a staggering 24.75 CR.

Expressing his eagerness for the electrifying IPL atmosphere and the fervent Indian crowds, Starc also shed light on his former RCB teammate, Virat Kohli. Describing Kohli’s off-field persona, Starc offered insights into the dynamic personality of the Indian cricket maestro. With anticipation building, fans await the on-field spectacle as Starc gears up for his IPL comeback.

“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 a promotional video for Star Sports.

Mitchell Starc set to grace Eden Gardens’ fortress

Mitchell Starc scripted history at the IPL 2024 player auction, emerging as the most expensive purchase ever in the tournament’s history. Kolkata Knight Riders secured his services for an astounding Rs 24.75 crore, marking him as the second player, following teammate Pat Cummins, to fetch over Rs 20 crore.

Starc’s return to the IPL arena arrives after a hiatus of nine years, his last stint being in 2015. His comeback follows a stellar 2023, where his contributions were instrumental in Australia clinching victories in the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup, notably triumphing over India in both finals. Armed with lethal pace and a wealth of experience, Starc will aim to fortify Kolkata Knight Riders’ bowling arsenal, eyeing a significant impact in the forthcoming season.