Shocking! Andre Russell released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have reportedly released Andre Russell ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, which is likely to take place in December. The three-time IPL champions have not retained Russell despite him being a member of the Knight Riders franchise in different leagues.

Russell, known for his six-hitting prowess, has been one of the match-winners in the tournament. The Jamaican all-rounder is capable of turning games with his power-hitting or his bowling. He has been part of the Knight Riders since 2014 and was retained for ₹12 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Andre Russell Released by Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo’s Nagraj Gollapudi, the Kolkata Knight Riders are set to make a bold decision that may surprise many fans. Andre Russell is expected to enter the IPL 2026 auction.

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Russell’s performances in IPL 2025 were far from his best. He scored only 167 runs in 10 innings at an average of 18.6 and a strike rate of 163.70, with just a single half-century. He struggled with the ball as well, taking 8 wickets at an economy rate of 11.94.

His dip in form hasn’t been limited to the IPL either. His performances across other T20 leagues in 2025 have also been underwhelming. With the franchise keen to build for the future, Kolkata may be ready to move on from one of their longest-serving stars.

Kolkata Knight Riders Endured Disappointing IPL 2025 Season

Kolkata Knight Riders had a disappointing IPL 2025 season. They failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished in eighth place with just 12 points from 14 matches. The team managed only five wins, and the campaign never gathered momentum.

Ajinkya Rahane, who took over the captaincy, struggled to replicate the influence Shreyas Iyer brought during KKR’s title run in 2024, leaving the side searching for stability and direction.

With such an underwhelming season behind them, Kolkata now turn their focus to rebuilding. The franchise will aim to make smarter auction decisions and carry those improvements onto the field. The exact schedule and venue for the auction are still to be confirmed.

KKR Have Several Potential Options to Replace Andre Russell

KKR have several potential options to replace Andre Russell, including Jason Holder, who has previously represented the franchise. Holder has sharpened both his lower-order batting and death-overs bowling. He could be acquired at a much lower price than Russell’s hefty retention fee.

The upcoming auction is a mini-auction, and the pool of elite all-rounders will be limited. Even with his recent dip in form and advancing age, Russell remains one of the world’s most impactful players in his role, and replicating his skill set is extremely difficult.

KKR may also target Cameron Green, but there is no certainty they will secure him. The most likely scenario is that KKR can buy Russell back from the auction. However, his price might exceed ₹12 crore, or another team could outbid them entirely.

Also read: CSK, Ravindra Jadeja fooled by Rajasthan Royals in smartest trade deal