West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement from international cricket. The 37-year-old will play only the first two T20I matches against Australia at Sabina Park in Jamaica. After that, he will step away from the international stage. Matthew Forde will replace Russell for the last three matches of the series, which will be held in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Russell played 84 T20I matches for the West Indies. He scored 1078 runs and took 61 wickets. He was a key member of the West Indies team that won the T20 World Cup in 2012 and 2016.
In global T20 leagues, Russell is a superstar. He has played in 561 T20 matches worldwide, scoring 9316 runs at a strike rate of 168.31. He has also taken 485 wickets.
Andre Russell Bids an Emotional Goodbye to International Cricket
Speaking about his retirement, Russell said, “Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life. I love playing at home in front of my family and friends. I want to finish on a high and be a role model for the next generation.”
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy praised Russell’s career. “Andre has always been a fierce competitor. His hunger to perform and win never changed. I wish him the best for the next chapter,” Sammy said.
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Cricket West Indies also announced the T20I squad for the Australia series. Two players Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades have received their maiden T20I call-ups.
Andrew is an 18-year-old batter and wicketkeeper. He made his ODI debut last year. Blades is a left-arm pacer who impressed in the West Indies Breakout League.
Full West Indies T20I Squad against Australia:
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.
The six-match T20I series will be played from July 20 to 28.
