IPL Final 2024: Cummins and Starc Set for Showdown
The journey for Pat Cummins began when he had to pose alongside Rohit Sharma with the World Cup trophy in the historic Adalaj stepwells, near Ahmedabad. This was followed by a pre-wedding-like photoshoot session with West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite at the Adelaide Oval, where the two Test captains flipped their sunglasses like teenagers.
Pat Cummins’ Off-Field Adventures
On Saturday, May 25, Pat Cummins had his most elaborate photoshoot yet, standing alongside Shreyas Iyer and the IPL trophy next to a merry-go-round at Marina Beach. He even struck a pose with an auto-rickshaw, reminiscent of Rajnikanth’s Autokaran role, while Iyer watched from the front seat. Cummins has managed to pull off these poses with ease, just as he has led the Sunrisers Hyderabad both on and off the field in 2024. His calm and precise leadership has won over fans and the people of Hyderabad.
Mitchell Starc’s Return and Impact
In contrast, Mitchell Starc isn’t one for much posing. The left-arm quick, although professional on the field, has never been comfortable in promotional settings. Not being the captain has allowed him to avoid the constant off-field limelight that Cummins handles.
However, Starc couldn’t escape the spotlight on the field, especially after his record-breaking Rs 24.75 crore price tag at the IPL auction. His comeback season with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after a nine-year hiatus has had its moments, most notably his explosive celebration after taking 4/33 against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on May 4.
The Road to the IPL Final 2024
Both Cummins and Starc will have a chance to shine tonight, May 26, in the IPL Final 2024 at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai. Their journeys to the final have been as contrasting as their IPL deals.
For Starc, whether he has justified his high price tag is subjective. Despite a slow start, he has found his rhythm, and his match-winning performance against Sunrisers in the qualifier has silenced any doubts. KKR has backed him throughout, reflecting in his 15 wickets at 28.66 and an economy of 11.07 in 13 outings.
Cummins, with 17 wickets at 32.23 and an economy of 9.28, hasn’t been spectacular with the ball either. However, his leadership has transformed Sunrisers from last season’s wooden spooners to finalists. His ability to create a supportive environment has allowed both local and foreign players to thrive. His crucial overs at vital stages have been instrumental in Sunrisers’ success.
The IPL Auction and Captaincy Masterstrokes
The December auction saw Cummins being picked for a significant sum, initially viewed as a gamble due to his previous T20 performances. Yet, his leadership has proved invaluable, especially after leading Australia to World Cup glory. On the other hand, Starc, despite his sporadic T20 appearances over nine years, was seen as white-ball royalty. KKR’s investment in him appears wise, especially if they clinch the title tonight.
Conclusion
The IPL Final 2024 will bookend a season that began with Cummins and Starc as auction headlines. Tonight, they have the chance to make headlines again as they aim for the ultimate glory. And perhaps, even Starc might not mind striking a pose or two if it results in an IPL victory.
Statistics Comparison: Cummins vs. Starc
| Player | Matches | Wickets | Average | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pat Cummins | 13 | 17 | 32.23 | 9.28 |
| Mitchell Starc | 13 | 15 | 28.66 | 11.07 |
Cummins and Starc’s performances reflect their impact beyond mere numbers, highlighting their crucial roles in leading their teams to the IPL Final 2024.
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