Daryl Mitchell's exploits in the recent ICC World Cup 2023 have yielded incredible results for the New Zealand all-rounder. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) broke the bank to obtain his services in the upcoming IPL 2024 auction, which is being conducted in Dubai on December 19, 2023.
Daryl Mitchell had an outstanding performance in the ICC World Cup 2023, accumulating 552 runs and hitting two centuries, both against India. His strike rate was 111.06 and his average was 69. He previously played for the Rajasthan Royals, but he didn't receive many chances to show off his bat and ball talents.
Mitchell had made his New Zealand debut in 2019 and thus far had an amazing international career. In 20 Tests, Mitchell has 1452 runs with 5 centuries and 9 fifties to his name with a best of 190. In 39 ODIs, Mitchell has 1577 runs with 6 centuries and 5 fifties with a best of 134 at a strike rate of 98.07.
IPL 2024: “We'll roll on”- CSK coach Stephen Fleming on succession plan for MS Dhoni
In T20Is, Mitchell has 1069 runs in 56 matches with a best of 72* and a strike rate of 137.22. He also has a total of 24 wickets.
When Mitchell’s name came up for bidding in the IPL 2024 auction, a tussle began between Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings for his services. After an intense bidding war, the MS Dhoni-led side won out by bidding INR 14 crores and got Daryl Mitchell for the IPL 2024.
Stephen Fleming spoke about acquiring Mitchell in the IPL 2024 auction and whether he was a replacement for Ben Stokes, who pulled out of the tournament. Although he downplayed the comparison, Fleming sees potential in Mitchell as an ideal fit for the playing conditions at Chepauk.
"He played just one game, so not massive shoes. Daryl is a different type of player, but his performances over the last 18-24 months have warranted this type of price. He is an unfashionable player, and often goes under the radar. With his ability to play spin, he is competitive and he is also a handy bowler. In Chepauk we can slide him into a role. Just like his performances, he fits in nicely and is a good buy for us," Fleming was quoted by ESPNCricinfo.
Meanwhile, Daryl Mitchell thanked the CSK for buying him and letting him be a part of the CSK family. He also showed excitement for playing alongside fellow New Zealand players in the yellow jersey and learning from MS Dhoni.
“Huge thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family and out on the yellow jersey. CSK is a wonderful franchise and I can't wait to be a part of it. Also excited to play with Devon Conway Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra now. Also, eager to learn about MS and Fleming. and experience what's it like to be part of the Chennai change room. Really looking forward to being part of the CSK family,” Mitchell said in a video shared by CSK.
