On IPL 2026 retentions day, the three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made the most startling announcement when they fired Andre Russell in advance of the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL). The West Indies power hitter, who has been with KKR since 2014 and is regarded as one of the mainstays of T20 cricket, was let go after his poor performance in 2025.

Russell joined KKR in 2014 after making his IPL debut with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), and he quickly became well-known throughout the world. The all-rounder really contributed significantly to two of KKR's championship-winning seasons in 2014 and 2024.Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif blamed KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar for Russell's release on his YouTube channel. After serving as KKR's assistant coach, Nayar was promoted to head coach last week, taking Chandrakant Pandit's place.
Despite not playing at his best, Kaif maintained that Russell is still a valuable member of any team. "Russell's release is incorrect. You paid him 12 crore, which isn't much for a player like him. Kaif recently stated, "He is a once-in-a-generation player.""Yes, he wasn't playing well, but he did score runs later on. However, coaches bring about some modifications as they evolve. This was a significant call, in my opinion. You could argue that he wasn't at his best, but I think this is a format—especially in the IPL—where seasoned players excel, and there are plenty of examples.
"I believe Abhishek Nayar is the obvious solution to his release. Now he wants to start his own team. However, this was a tremendous call, Kaif clarified. Russell's exit has left KKR in need of a seasoned middle-order player who can completely replace him.Russell participated in 133 games for KKR, amassing 2593 runs and taking 122 wickets. Russell has amassed 2651 runs in the IPL overall.