Andre Russell to Officially Retire from International Cricket After a Legendary 14-Year Career at Emotional Jamaica T20Is
On July 16, 2025, at age 37, Russell declared his retirement from international cricket. His final matches will be the first two T20Is against Australia at Sabina Park (Kingston, Jamaica) on July 20 and 22, 2025
All-rounder Andre Russell, a two-time T20 World Cup winner in 2012 and 2016, has represented the West Indies in 84 T20 Internationals, where he scored three half-centuries and claimed 61 wickets. He has played 84 matches, scored 1,078 runs, and taken 61 wickets, including three half-centuries and best bowling figures of 3/19
He described representing the West Indies as one of his proudest achievements and said he aimed to finish on a high while inspiring future Caribbean cricketers. Russell is set to become the second high-profile West Indies cricketer, following Nicholas Pooran, to announce his retirement from international cricket within two months, marking a significant shift in the team’s transition phase as several seasoned players step away from the global stage.
Andre Russell was a part of the West Indies squads when the team won the T20 World Cup in 2012 and then in 2016, when he took the new ball and dismissed Alex Hales, the English opening batter, in the second over in Kolkata
“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.”
“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.”
“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.” Daren Sammy said this by giving tribute to the all-rounder.
Maiden call-ups
Cricket West Indies announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against Australia on Wednesday (July 16), featuring a blend of youth and experience. The squad includes first-time T20I call-ups for Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades, signaling the team’s focus on grooming emerging talent for the future.
Among the notable inclusions are seasoned performers like Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder, and Rovman Powell, who bring valuable experience to the lineup.
Jewel Andrew, just 18 years old, made his international debut in the ODI format last October. An up-and-coming batting talent, Andrew has impressed the West Indies coaching staff with his aggressive intent and ability to take on spinners with confidence. Additionally, he offers flexibility in the field, being capable of wicket-keeping duties when needed.
West Indies squad for T20Is, including Andre Russell, in 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 T20I series is scheduled to take place from July 20 to July 28, with the first three matches at Sabina Park in Jamaica, followed by the final two games at Warner Park in St. Kitts.