Overview
- Andre Russell has been released by Kolkata Knight Riders and will enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi.
- Following multiple exits, KKR enters the auction with a reported ₹64.3 crore purse and numerous vacancies, including six overseas slots.
- Mohammad Kaif criticized the decision and linked it to Abhishek Nayar’s influence, arguing KKR should consider buying Russell back.
- Aakash Chopra suggested KKR pursue Cameron Green as a like-for-like power-hitting all-rounder, while analyses tip CSK, KKR, and SRH as potential bidders for Russell.
- Reports of CSK ‘backdoor’ talks and a viral video of Russell training in a yellow Deccan Gladiators kit remain unverified and have not been corroborated by the teams.