Andre Russell Draws Inspiration from UFC Fighters for Fitness

With his all-around skills, Andre Russell has been a valuable member of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since the 2014 season. The 35-year-old has had a strong start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 after going through a rough patch the previous year.

At Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 23, KKR began their IPL 2024 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). While the hosts rallied from 119/6 in the 14th over to finish on 208/7, Dre Russ struck an explosive 25-ball 64 not out, hitting three fours and seven sixes. Russell claimed two wickets in two overs bowled during the second innings of play. Following the Knight Riders’ four-run victory, he was deservedly named Player of the Match.

According to Russell, he examined his old videos from the successful seasons and assessed his mental clarity before each delivery. Russell said that he was guilty of overanalyzing and putting too much pressure on himself when he was having trouble scoring runs.

Upon viewing those previous recordings, I became aware that I had a clear perspective and approach to each delivery. I let myself get under pressure [lately] because I was overthinking things. Occasionally, when we are having a rough time, we players wind up doing that. Thus, it’s all about mindset, and I now approach every delivery with greater clarity,” Russell was cited by ESPNcricinfo.

Russell stated that he is training for the 2024 T20 World Cup and the IPL by drawing inspiration from the UFC fighters.

“I’m working on the next two packs, as I currently have four.” Being lighter and leaner is helping my body, and it shows in how well I perform. I enjoy watching UFC matches. I set a goal for myself because I am motivated by those guys’ strong, slender bodies. I’m confident it will improve my bowling, fielding, and batting in cricket,” Russell said.

Along with mentioning the adjustments he has made to his batting style, the legendary Jamaican batsman also discussed how they have benefited him.

I’ve changed a few [technical] things. As Sunil [Narine] observed my technique while I was batting in the Abu Dhabi nets, he said something to me. And I became aware that I was [moving forward] too much.

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“I’m finding that walking quickly now suits me. The majority of big-hitters, in my opinion, don’t have long strides. That’s what I’ve done, and I now have a little more time to play ball. That seems to be the only minor adjustment I have made. My goal is to relocate as late as feasible. I try to rely solely on my good hand speed and hand-eye coordination,” he continued.

When KKR plays Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, March 29, Russell will be in action. Given his recent game-winning performance against the Sunrisers, the devastating batter has been playing some excellent knocks and is likely full of confidence.