Kaif Slams KKR: Says Even Four Cameron Greens Can’t Match Russell’s Impact

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has criticised Kolkata Knight Riders’ decision to release Andre Russell ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, calling the move “astonishing” and urging the franchise to buy him back.

Russell, who spent 12 seasons with KKR, featured in 133 matches, scoring 2,593 runs at a strike rate of 174.97 and claiming 122 wickets at an average of 21.59. Despite being retained for IPL 2025, the two-time MVP was released before next month’s auction.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif described Russell as a “once-in-a-generation” player and suggested the decision may have been influenced by new head coach Abhishek Nayar. “Releasing Russell wasn’t right,” Kaif said. “At ₹12 crore, he wasn’t expensive for the impact he provides. Yes, he had a dip in form, but he regained it. With a new coach comes new ideas, and I feel Abhishek Nayar wanted to shape the team his way. Still, this was a shocking call.”

‘KKR should get Russell back’

With KKR entering the IPL 2026 auction armed with ₹64.3 crore and six overseas slots to fill, speculation has grown that Cameron Green could be their primary target following Russell’s exit.

Kaif, however, believes Russell’s match-winning value is irreplaceable.

“The kind of power Russell has—even four players like Cameron Green can’t match it,” he said. “Russell hits 100-metre sixes at will and has won countless games from impossible positions. There aren’t many No. 7s like him. Green can’t give you even half those runs there—his game suits the top order. KKR should definitely try to get Russell back.”