On the grand stage of the IPL (IPL 2026 Retention List), Andre Russell had built an unbreakable bond with the Kolkata Knight Riders for over a decade. With his explosive batting and fiery bowling in the purple-and-gold jersey, Russell became an emotion for KKR fans. But that chapter has now come to an end. Ahead of the mini-auction, the Knight Riders have taken a major decision—ending their 11-year association with the Caribbean all-rounder.
১১ বছরের সম্পর্ক শেষ! নাইটদের ছাঁটাইয়ের তালিকায় নাম উঠল একাধিক তারকার
Hints Came Last Season—Now It’s Official
Russell was not in form in the last IPL season. Injuries also didn’t leave him alone. Even though he was part of the playing XI, he could no longer produce the match-winning performances he once consistently delivered. Eventually, KKR management made the tough call. On Saturday, the retention list was announced—and Russell’s name was missing.
Last season, KKR had retained him for ₹12 crore, with ₹18 crore deducted from their purse. That amount now returns to KKR’s budget, giving them a major financial boost for the mini-auction.
Russell joined the Knights in 2014. Over the next decade, he produced countless match-winning knocks and unbelievable bowling spells, becoming the “Caribbean Giant of Eden.” In 140 IPL matches, he scored 2,651 runs. His hurricane 88 against Chennai remains iconic. With the ball, he claimed 123 wickets, including a memorable 5 for 15 against Mumbai—one of the best spells in KKR history. But over time, his performance declined, and the management reportedly felt he was becoming a burden to the side. Therefore, they decided it was time to let him go.
A Big Shock—KKR Release Venkatesh Iyer as Well
Another major name in the release list alongside Russell is Venkatesh Iyer. He played a vital role in KKR’s journey to the 2021 final with his stellar performances. Based on that consistency, the team decided to retain him in the mega auction. But last season, Venkatesh was completely out of form—despite KKR having bought him for an astounding ₹23.75 crore!
This time, Kolkata did not want to repeat the same mistake. Even if they try to buy him back in the auction, the price is expected to be much lower. Along with Russell and Venkatesh, KKR have also released several foreign players, including Moeen Ali, Anrich Nortje, Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Spencer Johnson.
Ahead of the mini-auction, it’s clear that KKR is gearing up for a fresh new look next season. With a massive budget, Shah Rukh Khan’s team could go on a huge shopping spree.
🚨 KKR’s Top 5 Releases for IPL 2026 🚨
* Andre Russell
* Venkatesh Iyer
* Quinton de Kock
* Moeen Ali
* Anrich NortjeReleasing Andre Russell is the biggest shock… absolutely unexpected! 🤯#IPL2026 #KKR #KKRReleases #AndreRussell #IPLAuction #TATAIPL #ipltrade #IPL2026 pic.twitter.com/DXOeeOEFCp
— Piyush Nagar (@PiyushNagar135) November 15, 2025