West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement from international cricket and will bid farewell after the first two T20Is against Australia, scheduled to be played at Sabina Park in Jamaica—his home ground. The 37-year-old, who has been a mainstay in T20 cricket for the West Indies, will bring the curtain down on a remarkable international career during this highly anticipated series.
Russell’s Impactful T20I Career Comes to an End
Since making his T20I debut in 2011, Russell has become one of the most explosive and reliable all-rounders in the shortest format. He has represented the West Indies in 84 T20Is, scoring 1,078 runs at an impressive strike rate of 163.08. With the ball, he has taken 61 wickets, maintaining an economy rate of 9.30.
While Russell has not played ODI or Test cricket for West Indies in recent years, his T20 contributions have remained significant. He last played international cricket during the 2024 T20 World Cup, and although his 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) performance was below par—scoring 126 runs in eight innings and taking 10 wickets with an economy rate close to 10—his legacy in maroon remains untarnished.
In his farewell statement, Russell reflected on his journey:
“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… I wanted to leave a mark in the maroon colours and become an inspiration to others.”
He added,
“I love playing for the West Indies and I love playing at home in front of my family and friends. 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.”
A Two-Time T20 World Champion and Team Player
Russell’s role in West Indies’ T20 World Cup triumphs in 2012 and 2016 has cemented his place in cricket history. Known for his aggressive batting, sharp fielding, and handy bowling, he has earned praise from teammates and coaches alike.
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy, who captained Russell during the team’s 2016 World Cup win, praised his professionalism and competitive nature:
“Andre has always been the consummate professional and a fierce competitor. Whether I was captaining him or now coaching him, his hunger to perform and win for West Indies has never wavered. I wish him all the best on his next chapter, and I hope he continues to inspire generations to come.”
After Russell’s final two games in Jamaica, Matthew Forde will take his place for the remaining three T20Is against Australia. This retirement follows closely on the heels of Nicholas Pooran’s decision to step away from international cricket, signaling the end of an era for West Indies cricket.
As Andre Russell prepares for his final bow in international cricket, fans will no doubt celebrate a career filled with unforgettable moments, powerful sixes, and unwavering commitment to West Indies cricket.
