IPL 2024 created a strong headline with a few big buys, particularly one name, Australian champion Mitchell Starc, who fetched an unbelievable price of ₹24.75 crore. This amount is, remarkably, more than the IPL prize money of ₹20 crore. Starc has total of 41 IPL games to his name and took 51 wickets. It is noteworthy that he returned to the IPL in 2024 after a long 8 years and secured the highest price.
However, this has sparked a debate about why he getting more than Indian legend Jasprit Bumrah. As the IPL 2025 auction coming, Mumbai Indians are likely to look to retain Bumrah, but will he command a higher price than Mitchell Starc this time? We bring you a few reasons why Jasprit Bumrah deserves more than Mitchell Starc this time.
Jasprit Bumrah vs Mitchell Starc
Jasprit Bumrah IPL stats
If we look purely at the statistics, there is no question that Jasprit Bumrah’s consistency stands out. With 133 games and 165 wickets, his performance since 2013 highlights not just his experience but also his sheer consistency. In contrast, Mitchell Starc made his return to the IPL in 2024 after a long 8 years. While Starc’s accuracy is fine, it doesn’t match Bumrah’s sustained excellence specially in last few years.
Currently, MI pays Bumrah ₹12 crore, which means ₹71,429 per delivery. In comparison, Mitchell Starc earned ₹7,39,097 per ball last season. From a statistical standpoint, Bumrah’s performance surpasses the Australian giant’s, making him a more valuable asset and deserving of a higher price than he is currently receiving.
Mitchell Starc IPL stats
When it comes to KKR pace bowler and Australian legend Mitchell Starc, his season has been inconsistent. He did not deliver the expected performance for Eastern Derby, particularly in the group stages where his economy was almost 11. Although he made an impact in crucial games, including finals and playoffs, he did not show the same level of consistency as the Indian legend.
There is no question that Starc is a white-ball legend, but in the IPL, he has played only 41 games.
This also shows that Jasprit Bumrah has been more consistent and effective in this shorter format of the game compared to Starc.
The age factor also plays a crucial role, at 34, it is typically a period of decline for fast bowlers. In contrast, Bumrah, still in his prime, has the potential for a more lucrative contract.
It will be interesting to see how the auction goes this time. Will Bumrah leave his franchise if he doesn’t get the amount he desires? If so, which team will he choose, and what will happen with Mitchell Starc?