Andre Russell announces his retirement from IPL, see his career

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Andre Russell announces his retirement from IPL: West Indies explosive all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His decision, just ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, has come as a surprise to the cricketing world. However, Russell will now remain with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a new and important role.

Andre Russell's surprising decision before the auction

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37-year-old Andre Russell was released by the Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. This decision was already surprising, as it was believed that the star player could attract a big bid in the auction.

Russell confirmed that he would no longer play in the IPL by sharing a video on social media on Sunday.

Russell said in the video message: "I have decided to retire from the IPL. I will still continue to play actively in various leagues around the world and for all of KKR's other franchises. I've had some great times and great memories. Hitting sixes, winning matches, becoming MVPs, and so on. But, you know, sometimes you have to know when to retire."

Starting a new chapter with KKR as 'Power Coach'

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Even though Russell will no longer be seen on the field in the Kolkata Knight Riders jersey, his relationship with the team will remain. The franchise has appointed him a new role, appointing him as the "Power Coach." Russell, who has been an integral part of KKR since 2014, will now be part of the coaching staff and will use his experience to train the younger players.

Andre Russell IPL Records

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Andre Russell delivered many unforgettable performances in his IPL career. He is considered one of the most dangerous T20 all-rounders in the world.

• Two-time Champion: Russell was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders teams that won the IPL title in 2014 and most recently in 2024.
• Most Valuable Player (MVP): He was also the IPL's Most Valuable Player in 2019, where he wreaked havoc with both bat and ball.
• Player of the Match: Russell has won the Player of the Match award a record 16 times while playing for KKR. He trails only Sunil Narine on this list.

His contributions make him one of the greatest players in KKR's history. His ability to hit sixes and change the course of a match in difficult situations earned him the nickname 'Dre Russ'.

Andre Russell's IPL career (2012-2025)

A look at Andre Russell's explosive IPL career:

Features	Batting Stats	Bowling Stats
Matches	140	139
Innings	115	121
Total Runs	2651	2863 (given)
Highest Score/Best Bowling	88*	5/15
Average	28.2	23.28
Strike Rate	174.2	14.68 (bowling)
Economy Rate	-	9.51
Total Sixes/Total Wickets	223	123
5 Wickets	0	1

IPL 2026 Mini Auction Date

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Andre Russell's retirement announcement comes ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2026. The mini-auction will be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi.

Also Read: Ruturaj Gaikwad ODI Career Performance and Stats

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