Kolkata team retire jersey No 12 to honour Andre Russell

The Kolkata franchise have retired jersey number 12 in honour of long-time all-rounder Andre Russell, marking a rare tribute to one of their most influential players. The announcement was made at a preseason team event in the city on Tuesday evening, with Russell, now part of the support staff as Power Coach, in attendance. Russell’s association with the Kolkata side spanned over a decade (2014 to 2025) during which he played a key role in their success, including title-winning campaigns in 2014 and 2024. Known for his explosive batting and impactful performances, the West Indian featured in 140 matches, scoring 2,651 runs at a strike rate of 174.17 and picking up 123 wickets.He remains among a select group of all-rounders in the tournament’s history to cross 2,000 runs and 100 wickets. His standout season came in 2019, when he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after scoring 510 runs at a strike rate exceeding 200.Russell also holds the best bowling figures for the Kolkata side in the league, with 5 for 15 against Mumbai in 2021. With 122 wickets, he is the team’s second-highest wicket-taker behind Sunil Narine. Announcing the decision, CEO Venky Mysore said the jersey had become synonymous with the player. “He always wore No 12 with pride, and it is closely associated with him. We felt it was a fitting tribute to retire the number in his honour,” he said.An emotional Russell reflected on his journey with the franchise, calling it “over a decade of amazing achievements”. “To be part of two championship-winning teams and to see what it means to everyone is special. This franchise made the journey memorable for me,” he said.A two-time ICC Men's T20 World Cup winner (2012, 2016), Russell now transitions into a mentoring role, closing a decorated chapter as a player while continuing his association with the side.