IPL 2023: “Even my country didn't invest that much on me,” Russell acknowledges KKR’s support over the years

Andre Russell has been associated with KKR since 2014.

Andre Russell | BCCI-IPLWest Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has been an integral member of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise ever since 2014. In his maiden season, he played a part in KKR’s IPL title win and the franchise has retained him over the years.  

Apart from retaining his services, KKR have invested in Russell’s treatment and the Caribbean cricketer recently acknowledged it.

In the last few years, Russell has struggled with knee issues and KKR helped him with his treatment, which he felt was special.

Speaking on Star Sports, Russell said no other team, including his own country, has invested in him like KKR.

“Where I was, a few years ago, KKR actually make things happen for me where they send me to get proper treatments on my knees. That's something special to me to be honest. No other franchise or even my country never really invest that much on me,” Russell stated.

The 35-year-old is happy to be a part of the KKR camp and doesn't see himself playing for any other franchise in the IPL.

“I'm happy here. I don't see any other franchise I would love to be a part of in this tournament because I've been here for about 9 years now. Been here for so many years, I meet these guys, get closer to them every year. When cricket isn't there, I'm still in communication with Mr Venky (Mysore). I look up to him, I really respect him,” he added.

In the ongoing IPL season, Andre Russell hasn’t made a big mark yet. He has scored 108 runs and claimed five wickets from eight matches so far.

Kolkata Knight Riders will next face Gujarat Titans at the Eden Gardens on Saturday (April 29).

 
 

By Salman Anjum - 29 Apr, 2023

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