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IPL 2026: It Was Just Something Different, Says Andre Russell On Adjusting As KKRs Power Coach

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) legendary all-rounder Andre Russell has admitted that his first match-day experience as the sides power coach in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 felt a little different as he didnt know what to do at that time while being in the dugout. My first game on match day, I didnt know what to do with myself. I was just there ensuring that, okay, Im a coach now it was just something different. Ive 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, Russell said in a candid video conversation with KKR assistant coach Shane Watson. Discussing the specifics of his coaching role, Russell explained that he focuses on positional awareness rather than technical overhauls. 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 to outfox them with. 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 its going fantastic so far, he said. Discussing the specifics of his coaching role, Russell explained that he focuses on positional awareness rather than technical overhauls. 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 to outfox them with. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watson, who shared several competitive moments with Russell during their playing careers, lauded the former all-rounders impact on the sport. There arent too many who have come through pushing the limits of being a fast-bowling all-rounder, and Ive always had that much respect because I know how hard it is. Weve had some great battles over timebut utmost respect for Dre, he said. Article Source: IANS