West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell is all set to bring the curtains down on his international career. The dynamic cricketer, known for his explosive power-hitting and pace bowling, will reportedly play his final T20 International during the upcoming five-match series against Australia.
According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the second T20I at Sabina Park, Jamaica, Russell’s home ground, will mark his farewell from international cricket. The 36-year-old has been included in the West Indies squad for the series, but will only play the first two matches—both scheduled at Sabina Park—before bowing out.
Final Bow in Front of Home Crowd
Russell’s decision to retire comes just seven months ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February. He has not featured in ODIs or Tests for West Indies since 2019 and has been playing only T20Is for the national side over the last five years.
In total, Russell has played 84 T20Is, scoring 1,078 runs at a blazing strike rate of 163, with a personal best of 71 runs. With the ball, he’s picked up 61 wickets in 73 innings, including a best of 3/19.
End of an Era
Russell will become the second major West Indies star to announce his retirement in recent weeks, following Nicholas Pooran, who stepped away from international duties earlier this year.
A two-time T20 World Cup winner (2012 and 2016), Russell played a key role in both title runs. In the 2016 final against England at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, he made an impact with the new ball by dismissing Alex Hales early in the match, helping set the stage for West Indies’ thrilling win.
Not Travelling to St Kitts
After the two matches in Jamaica, Russell will not travel to St Kitts, where the final three T20Is of the series will be played. His international swansong will therefore take place entirely on home soil—a fitting farewell for one of the Caribbean’s modern greats.
West Indies Squad vs Australia (T20Is):
- Shai Hope (Captain)
- 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
As West Indies prepares to face Australia starting July 21, fans will be watching closely—not just for the cricket, but to bid farewell to one of the game’s most electrifying all-rounders. Andre Russell’s international chapter might be closing, but his legacy in West Indies cricket will endure.
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