Overview
- Aaron Finch told Star Sports that Kolkata Knight Riders could command a major trade return for Andre Russell but said he expects the team to retain him.
- Finch recommended releasing Venkatesh Iyer, citing his Rs 23.75 crore price relative to role and usage during IPL 2025.
- He also suggested letting go of Quinton de Kock and Manish Pandey to create squad flexibility ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction.
- Finch urged KKR to hold Australian left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, saying his best T20 cricket lies ahead despite an injury-hit 2025.
- Russell managed 167 runs and eight wickets as KKR finished eighth last season, and separate reports link KKR with interest in KL Rahul, which remains unconfirmed.