5 best signings by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL history

4. Andre Russell

Right now the most precious gem of Kolkata’s treasure chest is Andre Russell as he single-handedly won games for his side in 2019 IPL. Especially his batting has taken a giant leap in the last couple of years. However very few know that he was snapped by the franchise in the 2014 IPL auction for a mere 60 lakhs. Thereafter he became an integral part of the side with his all-round abilities.

Russell has the potential to play his natural game in the most difficult situations. He can carve out bowling attacks with his brute power and his IPL strike rate of 186 proves it. The Caribbean mohawk can also crank up the serious pace and has been playing the role of the third seamer for the KKR team. To go with it, his athletic fielding makes him a perfect recipe for the shorter format of the game.

In the 12th edition of IPL, Russell charmed the audience with his range hitting. He hit as many as 52 sixes in the season. It became a cardinal sin for bowlers to visit the Eden Gardens as Russell punished them with his bat. His efforts earned him the Most Valuable Player award in the season. Without a doubt, it can be said that the franchise will be ready to give a lifelong contract to him.