After the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) cut Andre Russell ahead of next month’s mini-auction in Abu Dhabi, Mohammad Kaif, who played for the Rajasthan Royals team that won the first season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, expressed his shock.
The lucky all-round player joined KKR in 2014 and went on to help the team win two championships. He saved the Knights from loss on multiple occasions over the years. He was also recognised as the MVP (Most Valuable Player) a few occasions for his overall achievements.
He was kept for INR 12 crore before the IPL 2025 mega-auction. He was unable to repay the franchise’s confidence in his ability, though, as he only managed to score 167 runs at an average of 18.56 and take eight wickets at an economy rate of 11.94 in 13 games.
Kaif believes that INR 12 crore wasn’t too much for a player of the Caribbean all-rounder’s ability, even though he acknowledged that Russell’s form wasn’t great. The former Indian batter also thinks that Russell’s rejection may have been caused by Abhishek Nayar, the recently hired head coach.
Russell’s release was incorrect. He was yours for Rs 12 crore, which isn’t a lot of money for a player like him. A once-in-a-generation player, he is. He was indeed out of form, although he did score runs later on. However, coaches undergo some adjustments as they evolve. This, in my opinion, was a significant call. You could argue that he wasn’t playing at his best, but from what I’ve seen, this is a format where seasoned players excel, particularly in the IPL. I believe Abhishek Nayar is the direct solution to his release. His current goal is to form his own squad. “However, this was an incredible call,” Kaif posted on his YouTube account.
Russell’s skill and strength are too great for even four guys like Cameron Green to match: Kaif
According to Kaif, Russell’s talent and strength are unmatched by even four guys like Cameron Green. At the mini-auction, it is anticipated that the Australian all-rounder would be much sought after. The 26-year-old will be the frontrunner to sign with KKR, who have the biggest purse going into the tournament, if they believe his services can improve their squad.
Even Cameron Green and four other players can’t match Russell’s skill and strength. His style of play allows him to knock 100-meter sixes whenever he wants, and he has won numerous games in circumstances where it seemed like the game was lost. Because of this abilities, he gained such regard. He is one of the few players at number seven like him. Playing Green at seven will prevent him from scoring even half of Russell’s runs because he bats higher up the order. Kaif went on, “I think they ought to buy Russell back.”
India
