Jamaica:
West Indies’ explosive all-rounder Andre Russell has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, with his final appearance set for the first T20I against Australia on July 20 at Sabina Park, his home ground in Jamaica.
The announcement marks the end of a glittering 15-year international career that saw Russell play a crucial role in West Indies’ T20 World Cup triumphs in 2012 and 2016. The 36-year-old, known for his power-hitting and game-changing spells, will bow out in front of a home crowd, with the second T20I of the series scheduled at the same venue on July 22.
THANK YOU, ANDRE RUSSELL. 🙏🏽💥
From the moment you stepped onto that field in maroon, you didn’t just play—you ignited. 💪🏽
Power. Passion. Pride. You gave us everything.
This isn’t just #OneLastDance — it’s the legacy of a warrior.🫶🏽❤️#OneLastDance #WIvAUS #FullAhEnergy pic.twitter.com/lKW6roISrG
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 16, 2025
Russell’s International Journey:
Andre Russell debuted for the West Indies in 2010 and quickly rose to become one of the most impactful T20 players in the world. In T20 Internationals, he has represented the Caribbean side in 84 matches, amassing 1,078 runs and claiming 61 wickets.
Though he played just one Test match also in 2010 Russell featured in 70 ODIs, scoring 1,034 runs and taking 70 wickets. His dynamic presence with both bat and ball made him an invaluable asset in white-ball cricket, especially in the shortest format.
Emotional Farewell:
Speaking on his retirement, Russell expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent the West Indies and highlighted the significance of ending his career at Sabina Park.
“Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life. When I was a kid, I did not expect to get to this level, but the more you start to play and get to love the sport, you realize what you can achieve,” Russell said.
“This inspired me to become better because I wanted to leave a mark in the maroon colours and become an inspiration to others. I love playing for the West Indies, and I love playing at home in front of my family and friends, where I get to showcase my talent and produce more high-quality performances. I want to finish my international career on a high while being a role model for the next generation of cricketers coming out of the Caribbean.”
Russell’s decision follows closely on the heels of another senior player, Nicholas Pooran, who also stepped away from international cricket earlier this year, just months before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
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West Indies Squad for Australia T20Is
The Cricket West Indies has named a strong 16-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against Australia, with Shai Hope leading the side.
Full Squad:
Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd.
As Andre Russell prepares to walk out for one final time in maroon, fans across the Caribbean will be eager to celebrate the career of a true West Indies legend, hoping for one last memorable performance from the talismanic all-rounder.
