Andre Russell announces retirement from Indian Premier League (IPL); reveals new role for KKR

After being released by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the much-anticipated mini auction, former West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell announced his retirement from the IPL on Sunday.  

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Russell played 139 team games between 2014 and 2025. With a 175.09 strike rate and an average of 28.58, he scored 2,658 runs, including 13 half-centuries. With an economy rate of 9.38 and an average of 22.08, the right-arm fast bowler took 124 wickets, including two four- and five-wicket hauls.

“Hi KKR fans, Dre Ross here. Just want to give you guys the big news. I made a decision to retire from the IPL. I'll still be active playing in various leagues all around the world and for all the other KKR franchises. I had some amazing times and great memories, hitting sixes, winning games, MVP, and all of those things. But when I made this decision, I just felt like, yes, this is the best decision. I don't want to fade out. I want to leave a legacy, and it's best to retire when fans ask why you still have some more in you. You still could go for a bit longer than to say, “Yeah, you should have done it years back,” Russell stated in a video on his social media.  

He expressed gratitude to the KKR management, especially CEO Venky Mysore and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, for respecting his choice. 

After being released by the Delhi Capitals prior to the IPL 2026 auction, Faf du Plessis ended his 14-year IPL career the day before, making Russell the second well-known player to do the same.

I'll be a part of the KKR support staff: Andre Russell to be the very first power coach in IPL

According to Andre Russell, he will still play for the Kolkata Knight Riders. He said that he will take on a new role as KKR's power coach for the 2026 season, saying he is excited to begin this new chapter while keeping the same passion for the club.

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“So, Kolkata, I'll be back. I'm here now just to say that I'll be a part of the KKR support staff. When I heard that name, you know, coming from Mr. Venky, I said, You know, power coach. That described Dre Russ. You know, that described Andre Russell because the power that I possess when I bat and the energy that I show in the field with the ball in hand, I can help in any department. So see you soon. And Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo,” Russell signed out.

Here is the video:

https://x.com/Russell12A/status/1995026603076981129?s=20

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