The IPL 2024 auction, although not a mega event, witnessed hefty sums expended on a few marquee players. With teams looking to plug specific gaps rather than overhaul their squads, these signings came with high expectations. However, not all investments yield the desired dividends. This season, a handful of high-profile acquisitions have underperformed, casting doubts on their future with their respective franchises. Here we dive into the struggles of three such players whose performances have not matched their hefty price tags.
#3 Alzarri Joseph’s Underwhelming Start with RCB
IPL 2024 Royal Challengers Bangalore hoped that the ₹11 crore deal for West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph would solve their persistent bowling troubles. However, the reality has been starkly different from their expectations. In his initial three matches, Joseph managed a mere single wicket and leaked runs at an alarming economy rate of 11.90, swiftly leading to his replacement by Reece Topley in the playing XI. With RCB’s bowling lineup continuing to falter and Joseph relegated to the bench, it’s clear that his stint so far has been disappointing.
#2 Daryl Mitchell’s Muted Impact at CSK
Chennai Super Kings shelled out ₹14 crore to bring in New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, eyeing him as a potential successor to the retired Ambati Rayudu. His prowess against spin and recent form, including two centuries at the 2023 World Cup against India, painted a promising picture. However, Mitchell’s transition to the IPL has been less than seamless. With only 135 runs from six matches at an average of 27 and a strike rate of 125, his position is increasingly threatened by the likes of Moeen Ali, who waits eagerly in the wings.
#1 Mitchell Starc Fails to Live Up to Expectations in IPL 2024
The spotlight of this season’s underperformance shines brightest on Mitchell Starc, the Australian fast bowler who became IPL’s costliest buy ever at ₹24.75 crore by Kolkata Knight Riders. With immense pressure to justify his price tag, Starc’s output has been underwhelming, securing just five wickets across six matches with a hefty economy rate of 10.55. Known for his lethal pace and precision, especially in the death overs, Starc’s form has been a concern, leading to speculation about KKR exploring other overseas options if his struggles persist.
24 Cr💀🥵 Mitchell Starc pic.twitter.com/GEwwWmqg9n
— Lokesh Saini🚩 (@LokeshVirat18K) April 17, 2024
These players, despite their proven track records and undeniable talent, have found the current IPL season challenging. The stakes are high, and the pressure to perform in the world’s most competitive T20 league can be overwhelming. As the tournament progresses, they will be keen to turn their fortunes around and remind everyone of their capabilities. For RCB, CSK, and KKR, decisions loom large as they consider whether to continue backing their big-money signings or cut their losses. The remainder of IPL 2024 will be crucial for these players, as their careers and potentially their IPL futures may depend on a swift return to form.
