Russell feeling super fit ahead of IPL return

Windies all-rounder Andre Russell has declared himself in top physical shape ahead of the new Indian Premier League (IPL) season after undergoing preparations with the physiotherapist of decorated Olympic champion Usain Bolt.

Russell, considered one of the world’s most valuable T20 players, has been looking to rediscover his best form after serving a one-year suspension for a doping whereabouts violation.

The cricketer returned to competitive action in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) but that stint was cut short after he sustained a hamstring injury earlier this month. Having reported to the Kolkata Knight Riders training camp earlier this week, however, Russell declared himself fit for duty after a few intense sessions with Bolt’s physical trainer Everald Edwards.

"Eddie used to be Usain Bolt's physio. We all know Bolt is the fastest man in the world, I am the second (laughs) so yeah like to be anywhere close to his fitness, you need guys like Edward around you. He is my personal physio," Russell said.

"It's been tough to be honest. You want to do things but you can't. You restrict yourself from doing it to be a better player, to be a better athlete and person.”

Prior to pulling his right hamstring during the course of his Islamabad United's eight-wicket against Karachi Kings Russell had shown promise of once against hitting his stride. The had player picked up four wickets, at 22.25, in three innings before injury cut his season short.