IPL 2026: Can this all-rounder be the perfect replacement for Andre Russell at KKR?

Kolkata Knight Riders’ decision to release Andre Russell after more than a decade has opened up a massive shift in the franchise’s strategy ahead of IPL 2026. With a hefty purse of Rs 64.3 crore, KKR now stands poised to reshape its squad and former India cricketer Aakash Chopra believes Australian all-rounder Cameron Green should be at the top of their wishlist.

Chopra: “Green is an Upgraded Russell”

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said KKR must chase Green aggressively, even calling him “an upgraded version of Russell.” He highlighted that Green not only strengthens the middle order but also adds valuable bowling depth. According to Chopra, KKR’s core bowling, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy, and Sunil Narine, remains intact, making Green the ideal high-impact addition.

Also Read: IPL 2026: Fans stunned as KKR part ways with Andre Russell ahead of auction

The Andre Russell Legacy

Russell leaves behind a towering legacy:

2,593 runs at a strike rate above 175

122 wickets at 21.59

Two-time MVP (2015 & 2019)

His explosive power and game-changing spells made him one of the most feared all-rounders in IPL history. Yet, KKR’s move signals a fresh direction, possibly even re-signing him at a lower price.

Why Cameron Green Fits the Bill

Green’s IPL rise has been rapid. After a strong debut with the Mumbai Indians in 2023, he played a crucial role in RCB’s 2024 playoff surge. His T20I form in 2025 has been stellar, 258 runs at 43.00, SR 168+, plus a return to consistent bowling at 135–140 kmph, making him a complete package for KKR.

KKR’s New Look for 2026

Along with Russell, the franchise has parted ways with Moeen Ali, Quinton de Kock, Anrich Nortje, Spencer Johnson, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Venkatesh Iyer. Still, a strong core remains, Rahane, Pandey, Narine, Varun, Rinku Singh, Harshit Rana, and young Angkrish Raghuvanshi forming a balanced foundation.

With big decisions ahead, all eyes are now on whether KKR makes the giant Green move.