Saturday, March 29, 2025
Andre Russell IPL Retirement:
West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell, long considered a core member of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has surprised everyone by announcing his retirement from the Indian Premier League. The announcement comes shortly after KKR released him ahead of the IPL 2026 mega auction.
Despite continuing to dominate T20 leagues around the world, Russell has decided to end his IPL playing career. However, he also revealed that he will not be leaving KKR, and will return in a new support-staff role in the upcoming season.
While announcing his retirement, Russell wrote:
“Retiring from the IPL… but not from the swagger.
It has been an incredible journey—12 seasons of memories and so much love from the KKR family.
I will continue smashing sixes and taking wickets in leagues around the world.
And the best part? I’m not leaving home…
You will see me in IPL 2026 as a Power Coach with the KKR support staff.
New chapter. Same energy. Always a Knight.”
KKR has also confirmed that Russell will remain part of the franchise until IPL 2026 in his new coaching capacity.
Russell began his IPL career with Delhi Capitals in 2012.
After two seasons, he joined Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014.
In his very first year with KKR, the team won the IPL title.
He remained with KKR for 12 consecutive seasons (2014–2025).
Across 140 IPL matches, Andre Russell scored:
2651 runs,
123 wickets,
and delivered countless match-winning performances.
He leaves the league as one of the most explosive and impactful players in IPL history.
