Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fans have taken to social media, urging the franchise's CEO and Managing Director, Venky Mysore, to consider a significant roster change. The core of their plea involves releasing veteran all-rounder Andre Russell and pursuing the acquisition of Australian talent Cameron Green, alongside Indian wicket-keeper batsman Sanju Samson. This comes after Green's explosive performance and Samson's consistent run in IPL.
Andre Russell, a KKR mainstay, has been a match-winner for the team over the years. With 2484 runs and 115 wickets across 127 matches, Russell has proven his worth in T20 cricket. However, recent performances have led some fans to believe that his effectiveness may be waning. In the 2025 season, there were questions raised about KKR's utilization of Russell, with stats indicating a minimal impact in some games. In six matches, he scored only 17 runs from 20 balls and bowled just 39 balls. Some fans feel Russell is underutilized by KKR. Despite his proven ability, some fans are suggesting it might be time for KKR to look towards the future.
Cameron Green, the Australian all-rounder, has been making headlines with his recent performances. Green has played 29 IPL matches, scoring 707 runs with an average of 41.59. He has also hit 1 century and 2 half-centuries. In the IPL Auction 2024, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) acquired Green for a hefty sum of Rs 17.50 Cr. After recovering from a back injury, Green showcased his destructive ability in a T20I match against South Africa, scoring 35 runs off 13 balls. Some believe Green could be a valuable asset to any IPL team, especially with his potential to contribute with both bat and ball.
Sanju Samson, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain, has been a consistent performer in the IPL since his debut in 2013. Samson has scored 4,704 runs in 177 matches, with an average of 30.95. He also has 3 centuries and 26 half-centuries to his name. In IPL 2024, Samson amassed 531 runs at an impressive average of 48.27 and a strike rate of 153.47. Besides his batting prowess, Samson is also an excellent wicket-keeper, with 85 dismissals from behind the stumps. He has also led Rajasthan Royals to 33 wins in 67 matches, making him a valuable asset as a captain.
Venky Mysore, the CEO and Managing Director of KKR, has been instrumental in the team's success over the years. Since joining KKR in 2010, the team has won the IPL in 2012, 2014 and 2024. He also played a crucial role in KKR's acquisition of the Caribbean Premier League team Trinbago Knight Riders. With over 25 years of experience in the financial services sector, Mysore brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the franchise. It remains to be seen whether Mysore and the KKR management will heed the fans' call and make these significant changes to the team's roster.
