'No Other Franchise or Even My Country...,' Andre Russell Takes Jibe at CWI

image-lh1myqyoRussell has criticised West Indies board [Twitter]

One of the most explosive all-rounders in world cricket, Andre Russell is undergoing a lean patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are placed seventh in the points table with three wins and five losses. ​Russell, 35, over the past few years, has struggled with knee injuries that have limited his cricket to leagues, as the Cricket West Indies (CWI) have moved on to younger talents for their national white-ball sides.

Despite his injuries and a one-year ban (2017), the KKR franchise has stuck with Russell since 2014. The all-rounder, who has had a terrific 2019 edition slamming 510 runs, has managed only 108 runs this season, which has hampered KKR's success greatly. 

Speaking to Star Sports, Russell opened up about his association with KKR and how they have helped in treating his knee ailment.  In 106 IPL matches, Russell has amassed 2,143 runs and picked up 94 wickets. 

During the conversation, the Jamaican also took a dig at CWI for investing in the player, having played one Test, 56 ODI and 67 T20Is between 2010-2021. 

Here's what Russell said

“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. 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. 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."

Russell will next be seen in action when the Nitish Rana-led side meets defending champions Gujarat Titans this evening at Eden Gardens. ​