Andre Russell retires from IPL, joins KKR support staff as power coach

Star all-rounder Andre Russell on Sunday announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League, days ahead of the mini-auction on December 16. The Jamaican powerhouse, who has been synonymous with Kolkata Knight Riders since 2014, will now join the franchise’s coaching group as a “power coach” for the 2026 season, set to be auctioned in Abu Dhabi.

“Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger,” Russell wrote on X, thanking KKR fans for 12 memorable seasons. He added that while he will continue featuring in T20 leagues worldwide, he is excited to return to KKR in a new avatar. “New chapter. Same energy. Forever a Knight,” he wrote.

Russell’s shift to the support staff mirrors the path taken by fellow Caribbean great Kieron Pollard, who coaches Mumbai Indians while still playing in global leagues.



In a statement, the 37-year-old said he wanted to retire while still at his peak. “I didn’t want to fade away. I wanted people to ask, ‘Why now?’ instead of ‘You should’ve done this years ago’,” he said. Russell admitted that rumours linking him to other IPL teams made him uncomfortable. “Seeing myself photoshopped in any colour other than purple and gold gave me sleepless nights.”

He confirmed having extensive discussions with CEO Venky Mysore and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan before taking up the new role. “The name ‘Power Coach’ suits me. Whether it’s batting, bowling or energy on the field, I can contribute across departments,” he said.

Russell has never missed an IPL season since 2012, playing his first two years for Delhi Daredevils before becoming one of KKR’s biggest match-winners. He ends his IPL career with 2,651 runs at a strike rate of 174.18, including 12 fifties, and 123 wickets with one five-for in 140 matches.

His announcement comes just a day after 41-year-old Faf du Plessis confirmed he would skip this IPL season to feature in another league.