Andre Russell retires, becomes KKR power coach ahead of IPL 2026
Andre Russell retires, becomes KKR power coach ahead of IPL 2026
SRK salutes Russell as he retires from IPL and transitions to KKR's power coach role, with Abu Dhabi hosting the 2026 auction and a hefty purse for KKR.
Andre Russell has hung up his IPL boots and will join Kolkata Knight Riders as the team's power coach from 2026, signaling a fresh chapter for the explosive all-rounder. The retirement comes as KKR prepared for the IPL 2026 auction, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 15, with the side carrying the largest purse among all franchises. Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of KKR, poured praise into a heartfelt tribute that mixed gratitude with his characteristic wit, calling Russell his 'Knight in shining armour' and joking that 'any other jersey would look weird on you' as the star transitions into a mentoring role. Russell will now pass on the muscle, wisdom, and power to KKR’s younger gun players while remaining a central figure for the franchise’s long-term plans.
Cover image source: Andre Russell announces retirement from IPL, joins KKR support staff as power coach 🔗
