It is tough to be KKR at the moment. The franchise had forged a solid core and it was all set to deliver a few more trophies in the next two or three years. However, there is a Mega Auction now and they will have to reset the entire thing. This might also involve taking a few tough decisions. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three reasons why KKR might release Andre Russell before IPL 2025 Mega Auctions.
1) KKR might focus on domestic core
It is the domestic core that delivered a trophy for KKR in IPL 2024. It is always like that in the IPL. With the team setting eyes on the future, they could focus on the domestic core.
The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Varun CV, Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh and Nitish Rana are all worthy of a retention. KKR will have to make a wise choice if they are releasing Russell.
2) Andre Russell is 36 years old
The player’s age is one of the reasons why KKR might release Andre Russell before IPL 2025 Mega Auctions. Age is definitely a factor. By the next cycle, the West Indian will be 39.
For Russell, as well, getting into the auction could help him get the last big pay-cheque in his career. Nevertheless, salary is not a big aspect. It is KKR’s project that will have an impact.
3) KKR could be forced to pick one out of Narine and Russell
The problem of Russell is also there with Narine. However, Narine had an all-time campaign in IPL 2024. Considering the budget, the team could be forced to pick one of the duo.
In this case, KKR could go with Narine, who has served the franchise better in the recent years. Hence, Russell could be released.