• Source:JND
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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made history in last year's IPl auction when they acquired Australia pacer Mitchell Starc for an astronomical price of Rs 24.75 crore. Ahead of the IPL 2024 season, KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir opined that the team would hope the pacer continues his international prowess for the franchise.

Gambhir, who rejoined KKR after two stints with Lucknow Super Giants, shared his emotional bond with the Kolkata-based franchise where he spent seven summers.

Under his stint, KKR lifted the twice in 2012 and 2014 apart from making the playoffs five times. On reunion with the side, Gambhir is excited to live up to fans' expectations.

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“I have always mentioned that KKR to me is not a franchise, but an emotion. I am thus happy to be back. I know there will be expectations and I hope to live up to it and make the fans happy,” the KKR mentor said on Thursday evening.

On Starc's inclusion in KKR's bowling set-up, the veteran opener opined that the price tag will not hinder his performance in the tournament and would look to continue his form in India.

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“I don’t think the price tag will be an added pressure for him. I only hope he can do for KKR what he does for Australia in international cricket,” he said.

Starc last played in the cash-rich league in 2015. In 27 matches so far, he picked 34 wickets at an average of 20.38. 

KKR had a mediocre IPL last year as they finished out of playoffs in seventh place with eight losses in 14 games. KKR will host Sunrisers Hyderabad at Eden Gardens in their opening encounter on March 23.