Andre Russell, the giant hitter of Kolkata Knight Riders is an inspiration for many aspiring cricketers. The West Indies monstrous hitter has scored 312 runs in the nine matches so far, however, what makes him stand-out is his jaw-dropping strike rate of 213.69 plus. He has hammered 21 boundaries and 30 sixes as the KKR all-rounder has continued to torment the bowlers at regular intervals. His previous performance against the Royal Challengers Bangalore was amazing, where he scored 48 not out in 13 balls, made everyone sit on the edge of their seats.

Recently, Russell has shared the player names he admires most. The 30-year-old has named Chris Gayle who known as the Universe Boss, AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli he admires the most. He selected Gayle for his consistent performance with the bat throughout the years while adding he is just trying to follow the footsteps of Chris Gayle. He further praised Kohli and de Villiers for their dedication towards the game. He lauded the Indian skipper for his fitness and hard work to get his a game out in the toughest of situations. 

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In an interview with The Telegraph, he said, “I’ve always admired Chris Gayle, who continues to show that he’s the Universe Boss... I’m not at his level yet... However, I’m doing my thing and climbing up the ladder. But it’s Chris who is the man still and I’m just trying to follow in his footsteps. Chris knows what his strengths are and, indeed, plays to his strengths. He’s been hitting the ball so cleanly and so consistently. For years.”

He further added, “AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli... I’ve seen the extraordinary transformation in Virat’s cricket in the last few years... He has changed a lot of things... Diet, for one. The way Virat goes about preparing himself, well, he does work hard... If your mindset is right and the body in the best condition, then you have less chances of injury... To talk of AB... He could be off cricket for two-three months, but would immediately deliver on getting back... Would get a hundred... AB has all the shots and is so creative.”

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