In one of the biggest surprises of the IPL 2026 retention window, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have parted ways with long-time superstar Andre Russell, ending a decade-long association that shaped some of the franchise’s most memorable moments. The decision has stunned fans, especially after KKR once promised that Russell would stay with them until he retired from T20 cricket.

A Stunning Move That Breaks an Old Promise

Russell, who was on an Rs 12 crore contract, was among several big names released as KKR opted for a dramatic squad overhaul. The franchise also let go of Venkatesh Iyer, Quinton de Kock, Moeen Ali, Anrich Nortje, Spencer Johnson, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

The move comes despite CEO Venky Mysore’s 2020 statement, where he had assured that Russell would remain a Knight Rider

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