Andre Russell retires from IPL before 2026 auction but set to be part of KKR’s coaching staff

In what has come as a groundbreaking development, Andre Russell has decided to hang up his boots from the Indian Premier League (IPL). This has come after he was released by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction. Russell was at a Rs 12 crore contract and was with KKR since 2014. His release shocked many but now, it is all making sense as Russell now joins KKR’s coaching staff ahead of IPL 2026.

Andre Russell announces his IPL retirement

An IPL legend, one of the most destructive finishers in the game, and a partnership breaker with the ball, Russell was touted to be one of the most expensive signings at the IPL 2026 auction on December 16. Yes, he had a quieter IPL 2025 season but with his attributes, any amount would’ve been less for the Caribbean powerhouse.

Teams like SRH, CSK and KKR themselves were interested but now, his retirement has thrown every team’s plans a curveball. His golden duck last season against SRH will end up as his last-ever IPL innings. He now joins KKR’s coaching staff as a ‘Power Coach’. KKR had a major shake-up in their coaching staff already this season, with Abhishek Nayar replacing Chandrakant Pandit as head coach. Meanwhile, Shane Watson joined in as an assistant coach, while Tim Southee is now the new bowling coach.

Andre Russell IPL stats

More to follow…

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