IPL 2026: Five Teams Likely to Target Andre Russell in Mini Auction After KKR Release
IPL 2026 mini-auction buzz grows after Andre Russell’s release from KKR. Here are five teams expected to target the West Indies all-rounder as franchises prepare for a major bidding battle.
Andre Russell in action during an IPL match before his release by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Andre Russell, the all-rounder from West Indies and a player of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for several years, has finally left the franchise, and that is why he has been announced as a free player ahead of IPL 2026 mini-auction. The movement has a great impact on the player market and it is even thought that this might lead to a bidding war between different teams who want him for their squad.
Russell did struggle a bit to perform in IPL 2025—where he was able to make only 18.56 runs per game at a striking rate of 163.73 and was the one who gave away the most runs in his eight-wicket tally, conceding over 12.5 runs per over—however, he is still regarded as one of the most powerful T20 finishers across the globe. With his IPL career strike rate more than 174 and 123 wickets to his name, “Dre Russ” is still able to turn the tables by himself.
With several teams holding strong auction purses and searching for dependable all-rounders, Russell’s presence in the auction pool is expected to be one of the biggest talking points this season.
Teams Likely to Target Andre Russell in IPL 2026 Auction
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Interestingly, KKR may still attempt to buy Russell back. The franchise holds the highest available purse—₹64.30 crore—and has six overseas positions open. The release is widely believed to be a financial strategy to re-sign him at a lower price instead of retaining him for ₹12 crore. With Russell’s familiarity with Eden Gardens and his cult fan following, a KKR comeback remains very much on the cards.
2. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK enters the auction with the second-highest purse of ₹43.40 crore and is rebuilding its core following several player releases. The team is actively scouting for an explosive finisher and a versatile all-rounder—both qualities Russell offers. With CSK known for backing experienced match-winners, Russell could fit the franchise’s template perfectly in the lower-middle order.
3. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
With ₹22.95 crore in hand, LSG is searching for an experienced overseas finisher after releasing David Miller. Russell’s capability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an ideal partner for Nicholas Pooran. His ability to accelerate in the death overs and bowl impactful spells gives LSG a strong reason to chase him in the auction.
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH has ₹25.50 crore remaining and needs a dependable finisher and lower-order stabilizer. Their middle order struggled with consistency in IPL 2025, and Russell could instantly bring aggression and depth. His value as a wicket-taking pace option during crunch moments further strengthens his case for SRH.
5. Delhi Capitals (DC)
Delhi Capitals, with ₹21.80 crore available, are also searching for an overseas impact player after releasing Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk. With retained pacers Mitchell Starc and Dushmantha Chameera, DC now needs a powerful finisher who can bowl medium pace—a role Russell fits seamlessly.
With interest from multiple franchises and a strong purse distribution across squads, Andre Russell could be one of the most expensive pick-ups in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. All eyes will now be on the bidding war scheduled next month.
