Mitchell Starc stole the limelight with his whopping price tag at the IPL 2024 auction, held at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai last week.

Having played a key role in Australia’s World Cup 2023 triumph, the left-arm pacer was always going to be a big attraction at the auction.

After an intense bidding war, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) managed to secure his services for a hefty sum of INR 24.75 Crore, making him the most expensive buy in the history of IPL auctions.

Despite a lucrative deal at the IPL auction, Test cricket remains the foremost priority for Starc, who didn’t throw his hat into the auction ring in the last few years.

Starc said that his decision to forgo T20 leagues in recent years was driven by his commitment to family time, especially to spend time with his cricketer-wife Alyssa Healy.

“I’ve always prioritised Test cricket and international cricket, and it’s hard enough juggling one schedule, let alone when there are two schedules [wife Alyssa’s career] in the relationship. I’ve always spent that time away from cricket with Alyssa or with family and recharging my body for being as fit and ready for Australian cricket. Red-ball cricket is still top of the tree for me, my body will probably let me know about Test cricket before I want it to,” Starc said, as quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald.

The 33-year-old but reiterated his commitment to prioritizing international cricket, while also adding that featuring in the upcoming IPL season will contribute to his preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024.

“As I’ve said before, the money is certainly nice, and it is this year, but I’ve always prioritised international cricket and I think it has helped my game,” Starc stated.

“It’s a nice lead into the T20 World Cup next year with the IPL and quality of cricket that tournament presents,” he added.

Mitchell Starc is keen to do well in the Boxing Day Test against Pakistan, starting on December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“The auction has happened, but it’s not April, so I’ve got five or six Test matches to focus on. The Boxing Day Test is special, we follow, for the Sydney-based guys, with a home Test as well. For me, it’s another chance to play a Boxing Day Test, perform well and another chance to win a series,” he remarked.

Having won the first Test in Perth, Australia are currently leading the three-match Test series 1-0 against Pakistan.