Russell retires from IPL, transitions to KKR’s ‘Power coach’

KOLKATA, India (CMC):

In a move that marks the end of a glittering chapter, Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR’s) icon Andre Russell has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League.

The decision comes after the franchise opted not to retain the powerhouse all-rounder for the 2026 season, prompting the 37-year-old to call time on his on-field IPL career.

However, in a testament to his indelible legacy, Russell’s association with the purple and gold is far from over.

The franchise has immediately brought the legend into its coaching set-up, naming him the team’s “power coach” for the upcoming season.

The announcement came directly from the man himself via a heartfelt video message. “I’ve decided to retire from the IPL,” Russell stated.

“I’ll still be active playing in various leagues all around the world and all the other KKR franchises. I had an amazing time and great memories, hitting sixes, winning games, MVP and all of those things.”

He elaborated on his philosophy behind the decision, emphasising a desire to leave at the peak of his reputation. “But sometimes you just have to know when to hang up the boots. I don’t want to fade out, I want to leave a legacy.”

That legacy Russell speaks of is undeniable. A cornerstone of the KKR side since 2014, he was instrumental in delivering two IPL titles to Kolkata, in his debut season of 2014 and again in the triumphant 2024 campaign.

His individual zenith came in 2019 when he produced a season for the ages, earning the IPL’s Most Valuable Player award.

His statistics for KKR are the stuff of legend. In 133 appearances, the Jamaican hard hitter scored 2,593 runs at a staggering strike rate of 174.96, clubbing 220 sixes and 12 half-centuries.

With the ball, he was equally potent, claiming 122 wickets and taking 40 catches. His 16 Player of the Match awards for KKR are second only to his long-time teammate Sunil Narine.

A bona fide T20 great, Russell secures his place in the exclusive history of the IPL. He is one of only two players, alongside Chennai’s Ravindra Jadeja, to achieve the monumental double of 2,000 runs and 100 wickets in the tournament.