IPL 2026: KKR release Andre Russell in shocking move, break their old promise

Pic.: Andre Russel

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have made a stunning call by releasing their charismatic all-rounder Andre Russell ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Russell, who was with the franchise 12 years, was not retained, along with Venkatesh Iyer, Quinton de Kock, Moeen Ali and Anrich Nortje. KKR freed up Rs 12 crore by releasing the West Indies all-rounder.

Russell joined KKR in 2014 and became one of their biggest match-winners, playing a key role in their title-winning campaign. In 2020, CEO Venky Mysore had even said Russell would remain with the franchise until he retired from T20s, but after 10 seasons, KKR have chosen to move on from the Jamaican all-rounder.

KKR have also parted ways with Venkatesh Iyer, who was bought for Rs 23.75 crore in the auction, freeing up their purse and giving them the highest budget going into the mini auction.