Former KKR batter Aaron Finch suggested Kolkata Knight Riders will not release Andre Russell ahead of IPL 2026, and he even suggests they should keep him for as long as he continues playing because of his long-standing impact.

Andre Russell joined KKR ahead of IPL 2014 and was part of the title‑winning campaign in his debut season. Speaking on Star Sports, Aaron Finch added that, despite Russell’s underwhelming IPL 2025, the franchise could still go ahead with him.

“You could get strong trade value, but we know they won’t do it. They will never release Andre Russell,” Finch remarked.

Former West Indies all-rounder managed 167 runs from 13 appearances at an average of 18.55.

Kolkata Knight Riders have confirmed Abhishek Nayar as the new head coach of the franchise, succeeding the seasoned Chandrakant Pandit.

Kolkata Knight Riders have ended their association with Pandit, who led the team to the IPL 2024 title after a 10-year drought. However, after a poor 2025 season, where KKR finished 8th with only five wins, the franchise opted for a change.