West Indies allrounder Andre Russell could be set for a new chapter in his globe-trotting T20 career following reports that former India captain Sourav Ganguly has offered him a place in the Pretoria Capitals squad for the 2026 SA20 season.
According to Anandabazar Patrika, the offer was extended during a meeting between Russell and Ganguly after the Kolkata Knight Riders’ thrilling one-run victory over Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on May 4. The 37-year-old Russell played a pivotal role in that win and has returned to top form during the 2024 IPL season.
Ganguly, who served as a mentor of the Delhi Capitals during the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons, is currently Director of Cricket at JSW Sports—the company responsible for managing the Pretoria Capitals in the SA20 league. The Capitals are part of a global franchise network split between GMR and JSW, who co-own Delhi Capitals in the IPL. GMR oversees the men’s team in the IPL and the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, while JSW manages the Pretoria Capitals and Delhi Capitals’ women’s team in the WPL. This structure will remain until 2027 when the groups will swap responsibilities.
Russell, reportedly receptive to the offer, is said to have responded positively, and Ganguly is hopeful a deal will be finalized. If completed, the move would mark a return of sorts for Russell, who began his IPL career with Delhi Capitals in 2012 before becoming a household name at Kolkata Knight Riders, where he has since become a key figure across their global teams.
Although Russell is a central figure in the Knight Riders franchise group, featuring for KKR in the IPL, Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20), and Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), the brand does not operate a team in South Africa’s SA20 league—making Russell free to explore other opportunities.
A significant factor supporting the move is a change in the SA20 schedule. Cricket South Africa has confirmed that the 2026 SA20 season will begin earlier, starting December 26, 2025, which may avoid clashes with the ILT20, a frequent source of conflict for multi-league players like Russell.
If he accepts the offer, Russell would bring immense firepower and experience to the Pretoria Capitals as they look to build a championship-calibre squad for the upcoming season.