Andre Russell announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League on Sunday, confirming that he will end his playing career with Kolkata Knight Riders before immediately returning to the franchise as its new power coach.
KKR released the West Indies all rounder ahead of the 2026 season, bringing to a close a decorated tenure that delivered titles in 2014 and 2024, a Most Valuable Player award in 2019 and 16 player of the match honours. The franchise, however, moved quickly to retain his influence in a different capacity as part of the support staff.
In a video message, Russell said the timing felt right. “I have decided to retire from the IPL,” he said. “I will continue to play in different leagues around the world and for other KKR franchises. I want to leave a mark. It is better to retire when fans are saying, ‘Why, you still have so much to give, you can play for a long time’, rather than, ‘Yes, you should have made this decision earlier’.”
Russell added that his bond with Kolkata made the transition to coaching a natural next step. “Yes, Kolkata, I will be back,” he said. “I am letting you know that I am going to be part of the KKR support staff.”
Russell will join the coaching group led by head coach Abhishek Nayar, with Tim Southee as bowling coach and Shane Watson and Dwayne Bravo continuing as team mentors.
