Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) iconic all-rounder Andre Russell has officially retired from the IPL after an illustrious career of 14 seasons with the league. Russell revealed his decision, specifically expressing allegiance to KKR and refusing to play for any other franchise, opting to join KKR’s support staff as the team’s “power coach” for IPL 2026.
Andre Russell’s loyalty to KKR continues
Russell’s IPL journey began with Delhi Capitals in 2012 before moving to KKR in 2014, where he became a key figure in their two title wins (2014, 2024) and achieved several records including 16 player-of-the-match awards. Despite his immense contribution, KKR released him ahead of the 2026 auction, leading to Russell’s retirement announcement, stating that he did not want to represent any other franchise.
The 37-year-old West Indies all-rounder has made the move from playing to mentoring, accepting a role in KKR’s coaching and support staff that focuses on power-hitting and fitness. The move symbolizes his commitment to KKR’s future success and his desire to remain an integral part of the franchise beyond the active competition.
Highlights of Russell’s IPL career
In over 140 IPL matches, Russell scored 2,651 runs at an average of 28.20 with a strike rate of over 160, taking 123 wickets with both bat and ball, making a huge impact on IPL results. Known for game-changing performances, especially in the death overs, he is considered one of the greatest all-round talents of the IPL. His retirement marks the end of an era but opens a new chapter as a mentor and coach.
IPL career batting summary
| Matchbox | 140 |
| Turn | 127 |
| it goes | 2,651 |
| highest | 88* |
| average | 28.20 |
| strike rate | 174.93 |
| 50’s | 11 |
| 100s | 0 |
| fours | 170 |
| sixes | 209 |
IPL Career Bowling Summary
| Turn | 118 |
| Wicket | 123 |
| best figures | 4/20 |
| average | 20.27 |
| economy | 9.07 |
| strike rate | 13.4 |
