"Will definitely play for CSK" - Fans react to KKR's shocking release of Andre Russell at IPL 2026 retention deadline

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) created shockwaves on IPL 2026 retention day by releasing star all-rounder Andre Russell on Saturday, November 15. The 37-year-old has been with the franchise for over a decade since the 2014 season.

Russell helped KKR win two out of their three IPL titles in 2014 and 2024. The West Indian all-rounder was particularly vital in the franchise's dominant title run last year.

Russell scored 222 runs at an average of almost 32 and a strike rate of 185, in addition to picking up 19 wickets, in IPL 2024. The veteran is among the most accomplished IPL superstars, with over 2,600 runs and 123 wickets in 140 outings.

Fans on X were stunned by KKR's move to release Andre Russell and reacted as follows:

S H A H I D.

@Irfy_Pathaan56

I hope Mysore has communicated everything to Russell with clarity. It’s truly sad to see him go. He will always remain a Knight. I’m literally tearing up as I write this. Goodbye, Andre Russell 💜🥹

Charan

@Stitapragnyudu

Andre Russell will definitely Play for CSK.

KKR Karavan

@KkrKaravan

Mixed emotions hearing KKR are letting Andre Russell go. So many unforgettable memories… but time catches up with everyone. Truly feels like the end of an era. 💜✨

Fans continued expressing their views on Andre Russell's departure from KKR, with one saying:

"Andre Russell released an era is finished at the KKR!!!"

"This is something I thought, would never happen. Andre Russell has been released. In 2020 he said, would want to play for KKR till the day I retire. But just because of one Blundar last year they're parting ways with one of their biggest match winners. Hope we get him back," posted a fan.

"Thank you for Everything Andre Russell. You were and will be the heart and soul of this franchise. The thoughts of seeing you in another franchise will always haunt me . Hopefully we can see you in KKR next season again in some role," a fan said.

Andre Russell endured a torrid IPL 2025 season for KKR

Andre Russell endured a rare poor campaign this year for KKR, finishing with under 200 runs and only eight wickets in 13 games. The big-hitting all-rounder struggled to make the much-needed impact with the willow, averaging a dismal 18.55 with a lone half-century.

Russell also fared poorly with the ball, traveling at an economy rate of almost 12. His torrid IPL 2025 season played a significant role in KKR's failure to defend their title from the previous year.

The three-time champions finished eighth in the standings, winning only five out of 14 matches.

Russell aside, KKR also released its big-ticket buy from a year ago, Venkatesh Iyer, along with three other overseas stars: Moeen Ali, Anrich Nortje, and Quinton de Kock. The franchise will go into the 2026 auction with a massive purse of ₹64.30 crore.