IPL Auction 2020: 3 teams that could target Mitchell Starc this year

The 29-year-old Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc may make his return to the IPL this year after missing the last few seasons because of his injury. He would have all the franchises’ attention as he has been one of the world’s best bowlers in the last decade. Based on his international performances, he can become a million-dollar buy in the IPL auction.

The left-arm pacer has played only two editions of the Indian Premier League. He made his IPL debut in the year 2014 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. His debut season was an average one for him as he grabbed 14 wickets from 14 matches at an economy rate of 7.49 and an average of 28.71. However, he improved his performances in the next year as he bagged 20 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 6.76 and a magnificent average of 14.55.

Also see – Ranji points table

He has not featured in any edition of the tournament after 2015 but he can make his comeback in IPL 2020. This article features 3 teams that could target him in this year’s IPL auction.

#3 Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals has traded Trent Boult to Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2020

Delhi Capitals showed massive improvement in their performance during IPL 2019. One of the major reasons behind this was their perfect auction strategy. The side finished at 3rd position after losing Qualifier 2 against Chennai Super Kings. They had recorded 9 wins from 14 matches in the league stage.

The Delhi-based team has released 9 players from their IPL 2019 squad for the upcoming edition of IPL including some big names like Chris Morris and Colin Ingram. Besides, the franchise has also traded their star bowler Trent Boult to Mumbai Indians which may prove to be a costly trade for them.

Also Read - IPL Auction 2020: 3 released players Delhi Capitals could target

As the franchise lacks a quality left-arm pacer, the management could go for Mitchell Starc in the auction as they have sufficient funds to bid for him. Also, he can form a stellar partnership with Ishant Sharma and Kagiso Rabada in Delhi’s fast bowling attack.

#2 Royal Challengers Bangalore

Royal Challengers Banglore hasn't won the IPL trophy so far.

Royal Challengers Bangalore has arguably been the unluckiest side in IPL history as they have never won the gold despite having a star-studded line-up every year. One of the main reasons behind their failures has been the disappointing performance of their fast bowlers. Their inability to keep a check on the runs in the death overs has resulted in the downfall of the team more often than not. Hence, to surmount this difficulty portion, the side must look for a star pacer who can prove to be crucial at the death.

The Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc can perfectly fit in this position. As the side has ended their ties with the likes of Dale Steyn, Tim Southee and Nathan Coulter-Nile ahead of the upcoming edition of IPL, the team management would look to place a huge bid and secure Starc’s services.

He has a clear idea about the wicket at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, having played for RCB earlier. Thus, Virat Kohli and co. would hope to acquire him once again as he has worked on his fitness levels as well.

#1 Chennai Super Kings

Chennai Super Kings has released the least number of players.

Chennai Super Kings has always believed in making the least number of changes to its squad. Continuing the tradition, the team management only released 6 players from their previous squad. The side has a plethora of spin bowlers who can turn the game with their quality spin. But the pace department still needs some attention from the management.

The side has ended its association with Mohit Sharma and David Willey prior to the IPL auction. Hence, they must try to find a quality fast bowler who can prove to be handy in both the powerplay overs and the slog overs. The side can also look for an overseas fast bowler as it still has 2 overseas slots left to be filled.

Also Read - IPL Auction 2020: 3 players who can start bidding wars between CSK and RCB

The New South Wales-born pacer Mitchell Starc can be a valuable addition to the Chennai squad. His left-arm pace can make up for the absence of Willey while MS Dhoni would have a strong death bowling option in his hands if CSK signs Starc.