West Indies cricket will bid farewell to one of its most explosive and charismatic players as Andre Russell has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. The 37-year-old Jamaican all-rounder confirmed that the second T20I against Australia on July 22, 2025, in Kingston will mark his final appearance in West Indies colours, bringing the curtain down on a high-impact international career that began in 2010.
A two-time ICC T20 World Cup winner, Russell leaves behind a remarkable legacy in white-ball cricket. He featured in 84 T20 Internationals, taking 61 wickets and scoring over 1,000 runs at a blistering strike rate, while also playing 56 ODIs where he picked up 70 wickets and contributed valuable lower-order runs. His career was defined by his unmatched ability to change the course of a game with either bat or ball.
Russell expressed deep emotion in his retirement message, stating that wearing the maroon was one of the proudest moments of his life. “Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life,” he said. “This inspired me to become better because I wanted to leave a mark in the maroon colours and become an inspiration to others.”
Though he played just one Test early in his career, Russell found his true niche in the shorter formats. Known for his raw power, aggressive style, and clutch performances under pressure, Russell was an integral part of the West Indies’ T20 World Cup victories in 2012 and 2016. In both tournaments, he played key roles with the ball and in the field, helping the team maintain its aura in the shortest format.
West Indies coach Daren Sammy praised Russell’s professionalism and leadership on and off the field. “Andre has always been the consummate professional and a fierce competitor. His hunger to perform and win for West Indies has never wavered,” Sammy said. “I wish him all the best on his next chapter, and I hope he continues to inspire generations to come.”
Russell’s departure is part of a broader transition in West Indies cricket, which has recently seen fellow star Nicholas Pooran also step away from international duty. As the team looks to the future, youngsters like Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades are beginning to emerge as potential successors.
While Russell steps away from international duties, he remains a giant in the world of franchise T20 cricket. He has played over 560 T20 matches globally, scoring more than 9,300 runs and taking close to 500 wickets. His recent stints include appearances in the Indian Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Big Bash, and Major League Cricket in the United States.
Russell’s decision means he will not be available for selection for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in early 2026, ending speculation about a potential swansong. As he prepares for one last hurrah at Sabina Park, Russell’s career will be remembered for the energy, entertainment, and match-winning brilliance he consistently brought to the game.