SRK’s masterstroke: How Shah Rukh Khan’s intervention saved Andre Russell from IPL auction uncertainty and CSK’s greed

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bidding an emotional farewell to Andre Russell was like the story of a Bollywood film, in which co-owner Shahrukh Khan (SRK) played the role of an important director. Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction to be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, CEO Venky Mysore told ESPNcricinfo how SRK’s foresight prevented the West Indies powerhouse from going to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and instead created a “power coach” role at the franchise.

Russell, 37, announced his retirement from the IPL on November 30, 2025, after 14 seasons – where he scored 2,651 runs at an impressive strike rate of 174.18 (12 fifties) and took 123 wickets (once five-wicket haul) – winning the MVP title in 2015/2019 and titles in 2014/2024. He was retained for ₹12 crore ahead of the 2025 mega-auction, but his release led to a saving of ₹18 crore under IPL rules, increasing KKR’s purse to ₹64.3 crore – the largest in the league – so they can rebuild the team without their “muscle Russell”.

Sleepless nights and worries about the auction
Mysore noted Russell’s distress following his release: “He was very upset about it… He had never been to an auction since 2014.” A few days later, the all-rounder confessed to having “sleepless nights” upset over loyalty to the purple-gold and uncertainties post-release. At the age of 38, physical fatigue – death bowling, explosive batting, athletic fielding – was a major concern until IPL 2026. CSK were looking to take advantage of Russell’s finishing abilities in MS Dhoni’s last match, and emerge as a contender with their budget of ₹50 crore.

SRK’s intervention: From player to powerhouse mentor
Mysore spoke to SRK: “When I shared this with him… it was actually his suggestion” to retire and take up coaching, so that family ties remain intact. The name “Power Coach” – reminiscent of Russell’s game-sealing shots – was an instant hit, with his energetic energy channeled into mentoring finishers. After the confession, Russell’s demeanor changed: “He hit a signature six, took catches, dived… he totally owned it,” Mysore told him via text message, smiling.

SRK tweeted: “Your contribution… is memorable… for another chapter… carrying forward the knowledge and power.” Russell responded: “When I hear ‘Power Coach,’ it best describes Andre Russell… the power that I have.” He will continue to play tournaments related to Global T20 and Knight Riders, but IPL? “Kolkata, I will be back.”

Star-studded KKR dugout: legacy confirmed
Russell joins a dream background team: head coach Abhishek Nair, batting guru Shane Watson, bowling master Tim Southee, mentor Dwayne Bravo—all of whom are former IPL winners, who further strengthen KKR’s title-winning plans. Mysore praised the “sudden” decision, calling it auction-proof loyalty that prevented CSK’s bid while also giving it flexibility.

X goes viral: #DreRuss is trending and fans are calling SRK the “DDLJ director of cricket”. As KKR looks at Venkatesh Iyer’s RTM and new players, Russell’s move cements his forever place at Eden Gardens—power, without being unretired.