West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell announced his immediate retirement from the Indian Premier League on Sunday via a Kolkata Knight Riders video, closing a 12-season chapter after KKR released him ahead of the 2026 auction. Despite speculation linking him to Chennai Super Kings and others, the 37-year-old opted out of playing elsewhere, prioritizing a dignified exit over fading relevance. Russell, who retired from international cricket in July 2025 after 84 T20Is, affirmed continued participation in global T20 leagues but confirmed his IPL journey ends with 2,651 runs at a 174.97 strike rate and 124 wickets across 11 KKR seasons plus one with Delhi Daredevils.
"I don't want to fade away—I want fans asking 'why retire? You have more left,' not 'you should have quit years ago,'" Russell stated, reflecting on sleepless nights seeing himself photoshopped in rival jerseys during retention uncertainty. Retained for Rs 12 crore ahead of IPL 2025 despite patchy form, he delivered match-winning knocks like an unbeaten 57 off 25 against Rajasthan Royals, silencing critics as teammates like Varun Chakaravarthy predicted 6+ more years. KKR's decision surprised fans, resurfacing CEO Venky Mysore's past assurances of loyalty.
Transitioning seamlessly, Russell joins KKR's 2026 support staff as "Power Coach," a role capturing his explosive batting energy, fielding intensity, and bowling prowess. Discussions with owners Shah Rukh Khan and Venky Mysore emphasized familiarity and respect, ensuring his "purple and gold" legacy endures. "The power I bring with bat and ball translates perfectly to coaching any department," he noted.
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Russell's IPL highlights include multiple MVPs, game-changing sixes, and pivotal contributions to KKR's 2012-2014 triumphs, cementing his status as one of the tournament's most destructive finishers. He signed off with a heartfelt Bengali chant for Kolkata fans: "Korbo, Lorbo, Jeetbo," signaling his enduring bond.
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