KKR Legend Andre Russell Retires from IPL, Steps into New Role as 'Power Coach'

NEW DELHI: West Indies superstar all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a player, but the fan-favorite will not be leaving the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) family.

The explosive hitter, known universally as 'Dre Russ', confirmed his decision just ahead of the December 16 mini-auction, revealing that he will immediately transition into a new capacity within the franchise's support staff as the "Power Coach" for the 2026 season.

A New Chapter, Same Energy

Russell shared the news via a video message on social media, titled: "Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger." He reflected on his remarkable tenure with the league and his enduring connection to KKR.

"What a ride it’s been in the IPL — 12 seasons of memories and a whole lot of love from the KKR family," Russell stated. "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."

The 36-year-old emphasized his desire to retire while still performing at a high level. "I want to leave a legacy, and it's best to retire when fans ask, 'Why? You still have some more in you…' rather than say, 'Yeah, you should have done it years back,'" he said.

Stellar Career Statistics

Russell’s IPL career began with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2012 before he became synonymous with KKR starting in 2014. In his 12 seasons, he played 140 matches, compiling 2,651 runs at a staggering strike rate of 174.18. With the ball, he claimed 123 wickets, including a career-best of 5/15.

During his 133 matches for the Kolkata-based franchise, Russell was a key component in their 2014 and 2024 IPL title victories.

Despite a poor outing in the most recent IPL 2025 season—where he scored only 167 runs and took eight wickets, leading to his release from the squad—KKR management, including CEO Venky Mysore and owner Shah Rukh Khan, quickly moved to retain his influence.

"There have been a lot of conversations between me and Venky Mysore, and also Shah Rukh Khan, about another chapter in my IPL journey," Russell noted, expressing gratitude for the respect and love shown by the franchise.

Defining the 'Power Coach' Role

The newly created position of 'Power Coach' appears specifically tailored to leverage Russell's unique skills and intensity.

"When I heard that name, you know, coming from Venky, I said, 'power coach, hmmm'. That describes Dre Russ," the former MVP explained. "Because the power that I possess when I bat, the energy that I show in the field, with the ball in hand, I can help in any department."

Russell's transition ensures that his dynamic energy and expertise in explosive batting and high-impact fielding will continue to benefit the three-time champions in the seasons to come.