West Indies cricket star Andre Russell is planning to retire from international cricket after playing the first two T20 matches against Australia, according to a report.
The 37-year-old all-rounder from Jamaica made his debut for the West Indies in 2010. Over the years, he has played:
- 1 Test match
- 56 One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- 84 T20 Internationals (T20Is)
Russell is set to play the first two T20Is of the upcoming five-match series against Australia, both of which will be held at his home ground—Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica, on July 20 and July 22. After these matches, he will retire from international cricket.
This means Russell will not be available for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka in February and March next year. He has already won the T20 World Cup twice with the West Indies team.
Shai Hope to Lead the Team
The West Indies T20 squad for the series has been announced. Shai Hope will captain the team. Other key players include:
- Rovman Powell
- Jason Holder
- Romario Shepherd
- Shimron Hetmyer
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Evin Lewis
- Brandon King
Two new young players—Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades—have also been included.
Coach Daren Sammy’s Vision
Coach Daren Sammy said their main goal is to win the 2026 T20 World Cup. He added that they are focusing on improving the team and building momentum with a strong and energetic group of players.
“In the last two home series, we didn’t get the results we wanted. But starting with this series against Australia, we aim to bounce back and perform well,” said Sammy.
Full Squad for T20Is vs 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
This series will be an emotional one for fans, as they get a final chance to watch one of West Indies’ most powerful hitters, Andre Russell, play in international colours.
