Delhi: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star spinner Varun Chakraborty has supported West Indies' Dhakad all -rounder Andre Russell and said that he will continue to play an important role for the team. In Kolkata on Sunday, after a win of a run against Rajasthan Royals (RR), Chakraborty praised Russell and appreciated his ability to win the match and mentioned his conversation with him.

Russell scored his first half -century of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 and gave a befitting reply to critics. This innings came in KKR's exciting victory, when the team defeated Rajasthan Royals in the final over at Eden Gardens. Initially, Russell, who played against Spin, started the attack against the fast bowlers from the 16th over and batted in the last over of Akash Madhwal and Jofra Archer.

Russell remained unbeaten by scoring 57 runs in 25 balls, in which he hit 6 sixes and 4 fours. Expressing confidence in this 37 -year -old KKR, KKR sent him to bat at number 5 in the 13th over and this decision was beneficial for the team. Russell looked very happy with his innings and said that he is feeling 27 years old again.

Varun Chakraborty said, “As much as I have interacted with him, he has clearly stated that he wants to play the next two or three IPL bicycles and play, that is, at least six years and, he looks fit. Age does not matter, as long as you are contributing to the team. The same should be thought. Franchise does not question any age in cricket.”

It is worth noting that before the mega auction of IPL 2025, questions were raised on the decision of KKR to retain Russell, as he was seen struggling in the first part of the season. He scored only 72 runs in the first 10 matches.