Andre Russell, West Indies’ powerful all-rounder, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The news has been officially confirmed by Cricket West Indies (CWI). His final appearances will come in the first two T20I matches against Australia later this month.
Russell will play his last international games on July 20 and 22 at Sabina Park in Jamaica, his home ground. These matches will mark the end of a 14 year long international career filled with explosive performances and unforgettable moments.
After the first two games, he will be replaced by Matthew Forde for the rest of the five match T20I series.
A Caribbean giant says goodbye
Russell’s retirement follows just days after fellow teammate Nicholas Pooran also stepped away from the game. His departure is another big moment for West Indies cricket, especially with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka just months away.
Russell was a crucial part of the T20 World Cup winning squads in 2012 and 2016, and his name is etched in Caribbean cricket history.
In T20Is, Russell played 84 matches, scoring 1,078 runs and taking 61 wickets. Known for his brutal power hitting and ability to turn games in minutes, he was one of the most feared players in world cricket.
His ODI career includes 70 matches, with 1,034 runs and 70 wickets. He also featured in just one Test, way back in 2010, which shows how much his impact was focused on white ball cricket.
Russell said he was proud to represent the West Indies and that it meant everything to him. “When I was a kid, I didn’t imagine this,” he said. “But as I played and grew, I wanted to inspire others and leave a mark in the maroon jersey.”
The all rounder added that ending his international career at home, in front of his fans and family, was the best way to go. “I love playing at home. It brings out the best in me,” he said.
Russell was not only a top cricketer for the West Indies but also a star in various T20 leagues around the world, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Fans in Pakistan will remember his power shows in Lahore and Karachi while playing for teams like Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators.
His athleticism, powerful sixes, and death over bowling made him a global T20 superstar.
Now that he’s stepping away from the international stage, West Indies will need new stars to fill his shoes. Players like Matthew Forde will have big shoes to fill. Russell’s presence in the dressing room and his experience will surely be missed.
Cricket lovers around the world, including in Pakistan, will be watching closely when Russell walks out at Sabina Park one last time. It will be a moment of celebration for a player who gave everything to the game and entertained millions.
From his T20 records to his two World Cup wins, Russell’s career is a story of power, passion, and pride.
As the West Indies say goodbye to one of their finest modern day players, the cricket world thanks Andre Russell for the memories.
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