Kolkata Knight Riders have retired Andre Russell‘s No. 12 jersey as a tribute to one of the franchise’s most influential overseas players. This special recognition was announced at KKR’s preseason event, Knights Unplugged, in Kolkata, with CEO Venky Mysore calling it as a meaningful gesture for a player who was magnificent for the team.
Russell was a key figure for KKR from 2014 to 2025, with the exception of the 2017 season. He was brilliant with the bat and ball, playing a crucial role in KKR’s title victories in 2014 and 2024. Ahead of the 2026 season, Russell retired from IPL cricket but joined the three-time champions as a power coach.
Speaking at the event in Kolkata, Mysore said, “Our relationship with Andre Russell goes beyond KKR. On the field, he has provided us with countless moments to celebrate over the years. The number 12 became so closely associated with him, and it’s such a distinctive part of his identity that we wanted to pay a fitting tribute. So, in keeping with the Knight Riders’ tradition of creating new legacies, we’re proud to retire this number in his honour.”
KKR RETIRING NUMBER 12 JERSEY FOR ANDRE RUSSELL 🥹
– A Standing Ovation for the Iconic moment. pic.twitter.com/50Otzi2y1c
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 24, 2026
The retirement of No. 12 is a significant moment for KKR, reflecting how crucial Russell’s explosive all-round performances were to the team’s identity. Over the course of his IPL career, Russell scored more than 2,600 runs at an incredible strike rate of 174+, and took over 120 wickets, cementing his status as one of KKR’s all-time greats.
Russell mentioned that the tribute video and the memories from his time with KKR had deeply moved him. “It’s been more than a decade of incredible achievements with this franchise, and watching the video really touched me. Being part of two championship-winning teams with KKR and seeing what it means to everyone is such a special feeling. Winning a World Cup is incredible, but winning the IPL is something truly unique. I just want to thank the franchise for making this journey so memorable for me.”
The emotion in Russell’s words truly captured the significance of the moment, demonstrating how much this tribute meant to both him and KKR supporters. It was more than just a farewell. It was a permanent acknowledgement of his incredible contributions, ensuring No. 12 remains a cherished part of the team’s history.
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