In a move that signaled the end of another great era Indian Premier League (IPL), In the West thorough and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) badge, Andre Russellannounced his retirement from the tournament.
Andre Russell’s Indian Premier League (IPL) retirement
The news shared by the Superstar Cricketer on November 30 brings your IPL journey in season 12 up close. Russell is known to be friendly ‘Dre Russ’ and ‘Muscle Russell,’ A few days after being released by KKR, the IPL 2026 mini-auction, the decision made a move to not represent any franchise other than the Knight Riders. In a clear sign of his commitment and continued association with the franchise, Russell revealed that he will return to KKR in a new capacity “Strength Coach” For the 2026 season, to ensure that his unique energy and experience remain in the Knight Riders family.
Russell’s IPL Franchise Journey defined by Power and MVP awards
Andre Russell played 140 matches as one of the most destructive and influential T20 players in the history of the league. He finished with 2,651 runs at a phenomenal strike rate of 123.18 at 174.18, a best of 5/15.
Russell’s career was defined primarily by the length of the decade Kolkata Knight RidersDespite starting his IPL career Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). His contributions were crucial in KKR’s two championship triumphs (2014 and 2024). A testament to his match-winning ability, Russell was named IPL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Twice (in 2015 and 2019), a rare feat that highlights his influence as a true all-rounder. With six-hitters, 223 sixes, 223 sixes, 223 sixes, he is forever the IPL Led as a premier-overs specialist with that bat and ball.
| Franchisee | Years are represented | Key contributions |
| Delhi Daredevils | 2012-2013 | He started his IPL career by gaining initial exposure and experience. |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | 2014-2025 | He became an icon and MVP of the team; won two titles; known for his explosive batting and adaptive pace bowling. |
Read: KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan pays a touching tribute to Andre Russell, IPL retires
Russell’s IPL salary since debut
Russell’s price tag reflected his growing maturity as a global T20 superstar, especially after his move to KKR, where his value has been dragged down due to his consistent game-changing performances.
| Year | Salary | Franchisee |
| 2012 | INR 22,621,500 | Delhi Daredevils |
| 2013 | INR 23,971,500 | Delhi Daredevils |
| 2014-2017 | INR 6000,000 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| 2018-2021 | INR 85,000,000 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| 2022 | INR 120,000,000 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| 2023-2024 | INR 120,000,000 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| 2025 | INR 120,000,000 | Kolkata Knight Riders |
Read: Andre Russell retires from IPL T20; He joins KKR as a member of the support staff
 icon Andre Russell has announced his retirement from the tournament. Russell’s 17-year IPL journey has seen him play for a couple of franchises.){kind=link}