West Indies star Andre Russell announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Sunday, ahead of the mini auction scheduled for December 16.
The 37-year-old confirmed the decision through an Instagram post, stating, “Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger. What a ride it’s been in the IPL — 12 seasons of memories, and a whole lot of love from the KKR family.”
Russell revealed that he will continue to remain part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) setup as the franchise’s Power Coach for the 2026 season. “And the best part? I’m not leaving home… you’ll see me in a new role, in KKR’s Support Staff, as the POWER COACH of 2026,” he added.
Russell’s retirement brings the curtains down on an illustrious 11-year association with KKR, a franchise he joined in 2014. He made 133 appearances for the team and played a pivotal role in their title-winning campaigns in 2014 and 2024.
Although retained for Rs 12 crore ahead of the 2025 season, Russell endured a poor run, scoring just 167 runs in 13 innings and claiming eight wickets while conceding nearly 12 runs per over. Consequently, KKR released him before the upcoming auction.
Despite the dip in form, Russell’s explosive batting and match-winning performances have left a lasting legacy in the IPL.
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