West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell announces international retirement

The West Indies explosive all-rounder Andre Russell will retire from international cricket after the first two T20Is against Australia at his home ground at Sabina Park in Jamaica on Tuesday, July 22. Notably, the T20I series is scheduled to start on Sunday, July 20.

Speaking on his international retirement, Russell stated that representing the national team has been one of his proudest achievements in his life. Moreover, he wanted to be an inspiration for the youngsters, who will come into the team.

"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 realise 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,” Russell said.

"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,” he added.

It is important to note that Russell has been regularly representing the West Indies national team only in T20Is since past few years, having played 84 games so far. However, his retirement is coming with seven months to go before the T20 World Cup 2026. On the other hand, he has also played one Test and 56 ODIs,

"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,” head coach Daren Sammy said.

It’s worth noting that the all-rounder Matthew Forde will replace Russell in the T20I squad against Australia for the last three T20Is of the five-match series.

West Indies T20I squad for Australia series:

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, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

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