Andre Russell Announces Retirement from International Cricket After Final T20 in Jamaica

Legendary West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has confirmed that he will retire from international cricket following the second T20 match against Australia on July 22, marking the end of a vibrant chapter in Caribbean cricket.

The match, to be held in his hometown of Kingston, will serve as a farewell to a player who has been a dominant force in the T20 arena for over a decade.

Andre Russell in action during a T20 match, ahead of his final game for West Indies in Kingston.

A Glorious Career in Maroon

Russell, 37, was instrumental in West Indies’ T20 World Cup victories in 2012 and 2016. Over his career, he represented the West Indies in 84 T20 internationals, scoring three half-centuries and claiming 61 wickets with his aggressive pace bowling and powerful lower-order hitting.

In addition to his T20 success, he played 56 ODIs, taking 70 wickets, though he has not featured in the 50-over format since 2019. He had a brief red-ball stint, appearing in just one Test match.

A Heartfelt Farewell

In a farewell note shared by Cricket West Indies, Russell reflected:

“Wearing the maroon jersey was a dream I never thought I’d live. But once I got a taste of it, I pushed harder to be the best I could be for my team and for my country.”

Currently active in global T20 circuits—including a recent appearance in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the U.S.—Russell said he wants to end his international journey on a high, playing in front of his home crowd.

Tributes from the Cricketing World

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy praised Russell’s passion, stating:

“His desire to win for the West Indies never faded. He’s a true match-winner, and I hope his journey inspires the next generation.”

The first T20 match between West Indies and Australia kicks off this Sunday in Kingston. Australia recently completed a dominant 3-0 Test series sweep.