IPL 2021 | ‘Russell may be back for play-offs’

He is world-class, provides lots of entertainment: Hussey

David Hussey, Kolkata Knight Riders’ mentor, feels all-rounder Andre Russell is close to being match-ready ahead of the Eliminator against Royal Challengers Bangalore on October 11.

“He had a fitness test on Wednesday,” Hussey said. “I think he is maybe a game away so I think he will be pushing hard to get back in for the final [playoffs], which will be a huge boost not only for us but the competition. He is world-class, and he provides lots of entertainment.”

Russell missed KKR’s last game against Rajasthan Royals in Sharjah on Thursday, which Eoin Morgan’s men won by 86 runs; their second-biggest win in terms of runs. It also helped Kolkata seal a place in the playoffs; a remarkable turnaround for a side that had just two wins out of seven when the IPL was suspended midway earlier this year.