Andre Russell, currently out of favour with the West Indies cricket establishment, praised Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), his IPL franchise, for footing the bill for his medical treatments like no other franchise or even Cricket West Indies, has done.
Russell, the Jamaican all-rounder, joined KKR in 2014 and has since become an integral part of the team. He won the league’s MVP award in 2015 and 2019.
Russell underwent knee surgery in 2019, and has been struggling with related issues ever since. Despite not being at his best in recent seasons, KKR have persisted with him, highlighting their strong relationship.
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Before the crucial match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday, April 29, Russell spoke candidly about his relationship with Cricket West Indies, and the different equation he has with his franchise.
“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,” said Russell. “That’s something special to me to be honest. No other franchise or even my country never really invest that much on me. I’m happy here.
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“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.”