Andre Russell Fitness Update: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor David Hussey said the team’s injured all-rounder Andre Russell is likely to be fit by the time the IPL 2021 playoffs. KKR almost assured their place in the playoffs after registering a massive 86-run win against Rajasthan Royals on Thursday. Now he will face the third place team in the Eliminator on Monday.
David Hussey said, he (Russell) had a fitness test on Wednesday and I think he will be back soon. He is working hard to play in the playoffs. His playing is important not only for us but also for the tournament. He is a world class player and entertains the audience immensely.
Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore have confirmed their place in the playoffs while KKR have consolidated their position at the fourth position. He finished his campaign in the league stage with 14 points from 14 matches and his net run rate is better than other teams.
Hussey admitted that after struggling in the Indian leg, KKR’s fortunes have changed in the UAE leg. He said, “In the beginning of the tournament, we could not play the kind of cricket we wanted to play. So it was good for us to get some time in the middle. This enabled us to devise a fresh strategy.”
He credited head coach Brendon McCullum for this success of KKR. “He (McCullum) works calmly and has a plan to take the team forward. He believes that every player should be at their best. He makes everyone feel that he is the most important person in the team,” he said. “
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