Andre Russell's New Chapter: From IPL Star to Power Coach

Andre Russell, the star all-rounder, announced his retirement from playing in the IPL but will join Kolkata Knight Riders as a 'Power Coach' for the 2026 edition. His decision mirrors that of fellow Caribbean cricketer Kieron Pollard, choosing to leave a legacy while continuing to participate in global leagues.

Andre Russell, a dynamic all-rounder known for his explosive performances, announced his retirement from playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Sunday. At 37, Russell will transition into a coaching role with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a 'Power Coach', continuing his association with the team.

Russell has been a significant figure in the KKR setup since joining in 2014, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. Expressing his emotions on social media, Russell referred to his IPL journey as one filled with memories and love, especially highlighting his 12 seasons with KKR.

He will not leave the international cricket scene entirely, as he plans to continue playing in other T20 leagues worldwide. His move into coaching is reminiscent of Kieron Pollard's shift to a coaching role while actively participating in other leagues, indicating a trend among experienced Caribbean players.

(With inputs from agencies.)