Andre Russell’s jersey number has been retired by KKR following his retirement from IPL. He will now serve as the ‘Power Coach’ for the team.
In a significant development for cricket fans, Andre Russell’s jersey number 12 has been retired by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in honor of his remarkable contributions to the team. This announcement comes shortly after Russell announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on November 30, 2025.
During his illustrious career with KKR from 2014 to 2025, Russell played 140 matches, scoring 2,651 runs and taking 123 wickets. His performance earned him the IPL MVP award twice, in 2015 and 2019, solidifying his status as one of the league’s standout players.
As KKR gears up for their 2026 campaign, they will face the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on March 29. Historically, KKR has struggled against MI at this venue, losing 10 out of 12 encounters. Ajinkya Rahane will lead KKR as captain this season, while Hardik Pandya will captain MI.
In a new role, Russell will join KKR’s support staff as the ‘Power Coach’ for IPL 2026, bringing his extensive experience to the team in a different capacity. His transition from player to coach marks a new chapter in his career, and fans are eager to see how he will influence the team’s performance.
In an exciting moment during the IPL 2026 opener, Rohit Sharma became the first Indian cricketer to hit 550 sixes in T20 cricket, achieving this milestone in his 464th T20 appearance. Rohit has also hit over 300 sixes in IPL, ranking second only to Chris Gayle’s record of 357.
As the new season approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. KKR’s fans are hopeful that the team can turn their fortunes around against MI, especially with Russell’s legacy still resonating within the squad.
Official statements from KKR management have expressed gratitude for Russell’s contributions and excitement for his new role. The franchise is committed to building a competitive team and leveraging Russell’s knowledge to enhance their strategies.
Overall, the retirement of Andre Russell marks the end of an era for KKR, but his influence will undoubtedly continue as he embarks on this new journey as a coach.
