“I don’t want to…”: Andre Russell opens up on his surprise IPL retirement

NEW DELHI: Legendary all-rounder Andre Russell, who in a surprising move bid farewell to the IPL after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has now reflected on the reasons behind his decision.

Leaving a legacy

In an interview with Crickbuzz, Russell explained why he chose to retire at this point and shared his thought process on ending his playing career.

“I don’t want to fade out, I want to leave a legacy behind. I believe it’s best to retire when people still say 'why' rather than reaching a stage where they say, ‘Okay you should have retired three or four years ago,’” he added.

The all-rounder emphasised that retiring while still admired allows athletes to preserve their legacy and leave a lasting impression on fans and the game.

Transitioning into a new role

After his release from KKR, Russell has now joined the franchise in a support capacity, embracing a new phase in his career. He reflected on how the franchise assigned him a fitting title for his off-field role:

“To be honest, when I heard that name coming from Mr Venky Mysore, I thought it perfectly describes me. Considering what I’ve been doing on the field – the power I bring with the bat and the energy I show in the field – it felt like the name ‘Power Coach’ fits really well,” Russell added.

A new chapter begins

Russell’s reflections reveal a thoughtful approach to retirement, prioritising legacy and impact over mere longevity. While fans may miss his explosive performances on the field, his transition to a coaching and support role ensures his influence continues in the IPL, guiding the next generation of players.