This star player retired from the IPL at the behest of Shah Rukh Khan, shocking revelation
The countdown to the IPL 2026 auction has officially begun, and the recently announced retention lists have already sparked major discussions.
Among the biggest surprises is Kolkata Knight Riders’ decision to release their long-time match-winner and explosive all-rounder Andre Russell. After an 11-year stint with KKR, Russell has now retired from the IPL and moved into a coaching role as the franchise’s “power coach.” The reasons behind this emotional decision have finally come to light.
Why was Andre Russell released?
Russell’s release turned out to be a deeply emotional moment for both the player and the franchise. According to KKR CEO Venky Mysore, the decision was largely driven by auction strategy and the purse impact. Retaining Russell would have cost KKR ₹18 crore, significantly reducing their ability to compete for key players in the 2026 auction.
Russell has been part of KKR since 2014, joining from Delhi Daredevils. Even during his doping ban in 2017, the franchise stood by him. But with age catching up and a high salary cap charge, KKR felt it was the right time to move on and rebuild with a larger purse.
Mysore admitted that releasing Russell was so difficult that he had sleepless nights. For the franchise, this marked the end of an era.
Became coach at the behest of Shah Rukh Khan
Initially, Russell was enthusiastic about entering the mega auction and testing his value on the open market. But within days, his feelings changed. Mysore revealed to ESPNcricinfo that Russell later expressed how deeply he was attached to KKR, the purple-and-gold colours, and the relationships he had built within the franchise.
Sensing Russell’s emotional struggle, Mysore shared the situation with KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan. It was Shah Rukh who proposed a solution: offering Russell a coaching role within the team.
Mysore explained, “I could see he was very upset. When I mentioned this to Shah Rukh Khan, it was he who suggested offering Russell a coaching position. Players often worry about life after retirement, and this gave Russell a sense of continuity with the franchise.”
Following the offer, Andre Russell decided to retire from the IPL and join the KKR coaching setup. However, he will continue to play in T20 leagues around the world.
Russell’s transition marks the end of one of the most impactful IPL careers, but for KKR fans, his presence in the dugout ensures that his connection with the franchise remains as strong as ever.
