Should KKR replace Andre Russell in Playing XI for a more consistent all-rounder?

West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell, known for his power-hitting and bowling, has been an important member of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since 2014. Over the years, his impact on the field has been brilliant, but with age, his performances have been less impactful.

Russell has been one of the most explosive all-rounders in the history of the IPL, and his contributions have been crucial to KKR’s successes. In IPL 2024, he played a huge role in KKR's third title victory, finishing the season with 222 runs at a strike rate of 185 and claiming 19 wickets in 15 matches.

However, before that, the West Indian wasn't getting the desired results he was expected to. Notably, the 36-year-old's movements on the field aren’t as sharp as they once were, and the explosive influence he once brought to the table now seems to be irregular. While he has been picked in the team for his experience and potential, it is becoming increasingly clear that his physical limitations are a concern for KKR.

KKR to start thinking about a future without Russell

In IPL 2025, Russell’s performances have been underwhelming so far, raising questions about his place in the starting XI. Their opening matches in 2025 have not been ideal as they have lost two out of three games. In the season opener against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, KKR suffered a seven-wicket loss, with the Jamaica-born scoring only four runs. Furthermore, he did not bowl a single over, even though KKR’s bowling attack appeared to be under pressure.

In previous seasons, he had been one of KKR's main bowlers, especially in the death overs. However, in both of the opening games in IPL 2025, he was not given the ball even once. Captain Ajinkya Rahane confirmed that the decision was tactical, revealing that the all-rounder was fully fit but that the depth in the bowling lineup meant he was not required.

As much as KKR may want to hold on to their iconic all-rounder, it’s becoming evident that the team might need to look elsewhere for more consistent and reliable all-round contributions. With him not performing as per the expectations with both the bat and ball in IPL 2025, the Men in Purple and Gold may need to start thinking about a future without him in the starting XI.

If the team were to replace Russell with a more consistent all-rounder, they could go for someone like a Moeen Ali or his West Indian teammate Rovman Powell. Ali, who has immense experience of playing T20 cricket, can be a good alternative. The southpaw played the game against the Rajasthan Royals in the absence of Sunil Narine and picked up two crucial wickets in his four-over quota even though he could not get going with the bat. On the other hand, Powell, who is often compared to Russell, brings the firepower with the bat and can bowl some handy overs if required.