In Russell’s absence, Powell hopes to cement his spot at KKR

In Kolkata Knight Riders’ list of retained players for IPL 2026, there is a big-hitting West Indian all-rounder from Jamaica. But contrary to expectations before the list was announced on November 15, it isn’t Andre Russell, who has subsequently chosen to end his playing career in the IPL and take up a coaching role with the franchise. Instead, the three-time IPL champion has retained Rovman Powell.

While Powell’s body of work is nowhere near as impressive as Russell’s, he is in a similar mould: the 32-year-old is also a fearsome striker of the ball in the death overs, and can bowl medium pace. Given the Russell-sized hole in KKR’s squad, the think-tank will certainly be keen on signing a marquee name at Tuesday’s mini-auction. Having featured in just two games last season, Powell is hoping for more opportunities too.

“To be retained by such a big franchise, it’s a confidence-booster. It’s a step in the right direction for me,” Powell told the The Hindu on Thursday. “Hopefully, I can cement a spot for myself. With Russell not there, definitely there’s an opportunity for me to get more game time. So hopefully, I’ll get that.”

Other than the IPL, Powell keeps himself busy by participating in many T20 leagues. Currently, he is an integral part of Dubai Capitals in the IL T20 in the United Arab Emirates. As lucrative as these leagues are for the players, they seem to have corroded the overall health of cricket in the Caribbean. What is Powell’s take?

“There is love for the sport, but the sport is also now a business. You use it as a viable means to take care of your family,” Powell stated.

“T20 provides that opportunity, not just for us as Caribbean cricketers but for a lot of the players. It allows you to take your family out of poverty and afford a better life. West Indies will never be able to compete with these T20 leagues”.