Kolkata Knight Riders’ Assistant Coach Shane Watson and Power Coach Andre Russell recently came together for a candid conversation on the official Instagram handle of the IPL 2026, where the duo reminisced about their memorable on-field battles while reflecting on Russell’s transition into coaching.
Watson, who shared several competitive moments with Russell during their playing careers, praised the former all-rounder’s longevity and impact on the game, saying, “There aren’t too many who have come through pushing the limits of being a fast-bowling all-rounder, and I’ve always had that much respect because I know how hard it is.”
"My job is to show how important boundaries are in T20s"
Opening up on his new role with the Kolkata Knight Riders, Russell spoke about the responsibility of being the franchise’s Power Coach and the unique focus of his job within the setup. “No team has ever had a power coach. My job is to show how important boundaries are in T20s, especially sixes. My role is basically to get players into the right position for whatever delivery a bowler is going to try and outfox them with,” Russell said.
He further explained that his role is about refining, rather than overhauling, a player’s natural game. “The job is not to change a player or coach him on how to swing his bat or make contact, but actually to be clear and add more power-hitting skills to his game. So it’s going fantastic so far.”
Russell also candidly admitted that moving into coaching after years as a player has been an emotional adjustment, especially during match situations when his instincts still tell him to get involved. “I’ve had those moments where I see the game getting into a situation where I would be the man for the job, and I just have to catch myself,” he revealed.
Speaking about his first experience on match day in a non-playing role, Russell added, “My first game on match day, I didn’t know what to do with myself. I was just there ensuring that, okay, I’m a coach now… it was just something different.”
"KKR is like my home"
The former KKR talisman also reflected on the emotional connection he continues to share with the franchise, calling the Knight Riders his home and expressing gratitude for the warmth shown to him by the team. “KKR is like my home,” Russell said.
Recalling the tribute paid to him by the franchise earlier this season, he added, “That was one of the most emotional moments of my cricket career, to be honest. You win World Cups, you win IPL trophies and stuff, but that was special… home away from home for me.”
Watson welcomed Russell into the KKR coaching setup and summed up the camaraderie between the pair by saying, “We’ve had some great battles over time… but utmost respect for Dre.”
Note: The content was copied from a press release and published after making minor changes.
