In a major development that has stunned IPL fans, West Indies powerhouse Andre Russell has officially announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League. The explosive allrounder shared the news through an emotional Instagram video, bringing an end to a glittering IPL journey that spanned over a decade.
The announcement came just days after Andre Russell was left out of Kolkata Knight Riders’ retained players list for IPL 2025. Despite being part of KKR’s title-winning campaign in 2024, the franchise opted for a significant squad overhaul following their failure to reach the playoffs last season.
ALSO READ: “Nitish Kumar Reddy had featured in even lesser” – Aakash Chopra
Unfortunately, Russell’s inconsistent form and below-par returns saw him placed among the released players ahead of the mega auction. However, this isn’t the end of Russell’s association with KKR. The Jamaican star confirmed that he will return to the franchise in 2026 as their Power Coach, a role designed to strengthen the team’s middle-order hitting and finishing abilities.
Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger 💜💛
What a ride it’s been in the IPL — 12 seasons of memories, and a whole lot of love from the @KKRiders family 🙏🏿
I’ll still be smashing sixes and taking wickets in every other league around the world 🌎🔥
And the best part?… pic.twitter.com/S5kU0YFRcR
— Andre Russell (@Russell12A) November 30, 2025
“Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger,” Andre Russell said in his announcement video. “Twelve seasons of memories with the KKR family. I’ll still be hitting sixes around the world, and the best part is—I’m coming back home in 2026 as KKR’s Power Coach. New chapter, same energy. Forever a Knight.”
WATCH – Fans Taunt Gautam Gambhir in Ranchi as Coaching Criticism Intensifies Ahead of ODI
Russell’s IPL legacy remains unmatched. Across 140 matches, he established himself as one of the most destructive ball-strikers in tournament history. Though he debuted with Delhi Capitals, it was Kolkata Knight Riders where he truly flourished. Representing KKR in 133 matches, he scored 2593 runs at a robust average of 28.81 and an astonishing strike rate of 174.97. Finishing with 2651 career IPL runs, Andre Russell retires as one of the most adored and influential overseas players the league has ever seen.
