KKR Retire Andre Russell’s Jersey No 12 After IPL Career

Kolkata Knight Riders have decided to permanently retire jersey number 12 in recognition of Andre Russell and his exceptional service in the Indian Premier League.

The franchise revealed this tribute during their pre-season programme, Knights Unplugged 3.0, celebrating one of their most iconic players.

Russell represented KKR for over a decade, from 2014 to 2025 and established himself as a cornerstone of the squad.

Renowned for his aggressive stroke play and effective bowling, he consistently delivered performances that shaped the team’s success, including title wins in 2014 and 2024.

During his tenure, he played 140 matches, scoring 2,651 runs at a striking rate of 174.17 and taking 123 wickets. His all-round excellence places him among a select group of players in IPL history to surpass both 2,000 runs and 100 wickets.

One of Russell’s finest seasons came in 2019. He earned the Most Valuable Player award that year.

Andre Russell produced extraordinary batting displays, scoring 510 runs at a strike rate above 200.

Russell also registered the best bowling figures for the franchise, claiming 5 for 15 against the Mumbai Indians during the 2021 edition. His wicket tally ranks among the highest for KKR, trailing only Sunil Narine.

KKR chief executive Venky Mysore spoke about the deep bond shared with Russell. He highlighted how Russell’s contributions on and off the field made him a cherished figure within the organisation.

Mysore noted that jersey number 12 had become inseparable from Russell’s identity. This made the gesture especially meaningful.

Russell, visibly moved, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the honour and reflected on his journey with the team. He described his time with KKR as unforgettable and thanked the franchise for its unwavering support throughout his career.

Having transitioned into a coaching role as a power coach, Russell continues to influence the team in a new capacity. The retirement of his jersey ensures that his contributions will be remembered as a defining chapter in KKR’s history.

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