IPL: KKRs No 12 jersey forever belongs to Andre Russell

Kolkata witnessed a rare outpouring of gratitude on Tuesday night as the Kolkata Knight Owners officially retired the No 12 jersey in honour of Andre Russell, declaring that no future player will ever wear the number for the franchise. The announcement, made during the annual preseason Knights Un unplugged gala, drew thunderous applause from the Eden fan base that has celebrated Russell’s explosive brand of cricket for more than a decade.

CEO Venky Mysore summoned the to the stage, holding up the distinctive purple and gold jersey with the No 12 on the back. “In your honour, we would like to retire this number for KKR,” Mysore said, noting that Russell’s power-hitting and fearless bowling had made the number iconic across the league.

The tribute comes after months of uncertainty. Before last season’s auction, speculation swir that Russell might leave Kolkata. The all-rounder quelled the chatter with a personal video message, declaring he would play only for KK or not in the IPL at all. He stayed, and now exits the playing roster to become the team’s Power Coach, tasked with mentoring younger finishers in the squad.

Reflecting on the tribute video, Russell admitted to feeling emotional. “It’s been over a decade of amazing achievements, having been part of two title-winning teams,” he said. “To see what it meant to everyone… that’s a different enjoyment. World Cups feel special. When you win the IPL, it’s something different. The last one we won, I got teary-eyed.”

Russell departs with 2,651 runs scored at an explosive strike rate and 123 wickets across his career for KKR, numbers that helped lift the trophy twice. “When you have left everything on the field, you don’t regret walking away from the game,” he said. “Every game I played, I played like it was the last game of my IPL career.”

Now in coaching gear, he expressed enthusiasm for the new role. “I have no regrets about being in this role. I am excited,” he said, praising guidance from staff colleagues Abhishek Nayar and Shane Watson.

KKR also confirmed that Rinku will serve as vice-capt under Ajinkya Rahane as the franchise prepares for the upcoming season.