Russell retires from IPL, joins KKR support staff

Kolkata, Dec 1: Swashbuckling all-rounder Andre Russell on Sunday announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League ahead of the mini auction scheduled for December 16, and will join three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders’ coaching staff.
The 37-year-old Russell, who has been an integral part of of the KKR side since IPL 2014, will join their coaching staff as a “power coach” ahead of the 2026 edition for which an auction will be held in Abu Dhabi.
“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 @KKRiders family,” Russell wrote on X.
“I’ll still be smashing sixes and taking wickets in every other league around the world. 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. New chapter. Same energy. Forever a Knight,” he added.
By joining the support staff, Russell has followed the footsteps of another venerable T20 cricketer from the Caribbean, Kieron Pollard, who serves as the batting coach of Mumbai Indians, even though he represents the franchise in other leagues.
Russell said he has had discussions with the KKR management over his role in the franchise.
“When I heard that name ‘Power Coach’, I felt that describes Andre Russell the best, because the power that I possess when I bat, the energy that I show in the field with ball in hand, I can help in any department,” Russell added.
Russell has played a total of 140 matches in the IPL and scored 2,651 runs at a strike rate of 174.18 with 12 fifties. He also took 123 wickets.