The Caribbean big hitter Andre Russell is set to retire from T20 internationals after the first two T20Is against Australia, bringing an end to his 15 years of contribution to West Indies cricket.
The big news ahead of the 1st T20I against Australia was the announcement of Andre Russell’s retirement. Already named in the squad, Russell will play only two T20Is and will bow out of the format as one of the most incredible T20 all-rounders in the world.
A two-time T20 World Champion, Andre Russell has played in 84 T20I matches, scoring 1068 runs and taking 61 wickets for the West Indies. His iconic moment came in the 2016 T20 World Cup semi-final against India, where he hit the winning six to take West Indies to the final.
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Andre Russell to Bid Farewell
Andre Russell will play his last T20I at Sabina Park in front of his home crowd.
"Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life," Russell said. "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. This inspired me to become better because I wanted to leave a mark in the maroon colours and become an inspiration to others."
Andre Russell shared this emotional note, highlighting his love for the game and his nation.
"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," as quoted by Cricbuzz.
West Indies head coach Darren Sammy was one of the first to congratulate Andre Russell on his illustrious career, having led him both as skipper and now as coach.
"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.”
Andre Russell will continue playing in global franchise cricket, including the IPL and CPL. With a record 561 T20 appearances across the global franchise circuit, he has amassed 9316 runs at a strike rate of 168.31 and taken 485 wickets.
The West Indies board has announced a replacement for the final three T20Is, with Matthew Forde coming in to replace Andre Russell in the squad.
West Indies T20I Squad:
Shai Hope (C), 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(first two T20Is), Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde (Last three T20Is)
