KKR’s Andre Russell (PTI Photo/Swapan Mahapatra)
NEW DELHI: In a city that worships its cricketing heroes, Tuesday night was all about Andre Russell. During a lively pre-season event called Knights Unplugged in Kolkata, the Kolkata Knight Riders made a huge announcement: they have retired their No. 1 team.
12 shirts to honor Russell. This means that no player will ever again wear that number for the team.KKR CEO Venky Mysore revealed the tribute on stage, saying, “In your honour, we would like to retire this number for KKR,” acknowledging how Russell made the jersey special with his powerful performances.
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Before the recent IPL auction, there were speculations that Russell might leave KKR. But he has already made his feelings clear in a personal video that he will only play for KKR or not play in the IPL at all.
Now, instead of playing, he has taken on a new role as a strength coach for the team, helping the younger players improve their finishing skills.Looking back on his journey, Russell became emotional. Over the years, he scored 2651 runs with an explosive strike rate and took 123 wickets, playing key roles in KKR’s title win.“I was a little emotional watching that video,” Russell admitted.
“It has been over a decade of incredible achievements, having been part of two title-winning teams.
To see what that means to everyone…that’s a different treat. The World Cup feels special. When you win the IPL, it’s different. “The last win we won brought tears to my eyes.”“When you leave everything on the field, you don’t regret walking away from the game,” he said.“Every match I played, I played as if it was the last match of my IPL career.”Now excited about coaching, he said, “I don’t regret taking on this role. I’m excited,” and praised working with coaches like Abhishek Nayar and Shane Watson.KKR also appointed Rinku Singh as vice-captain
Ajinkya Rahane
As they prepare for the new season.
