West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement date from international cricket, which is seven months before the next World Cup.
His last games will be the first two T20Is of the Australia tour of the West Indies at Sabina Park in Jamaica.
The 37-year-old has been featuring in T20Is since 2019 and has played 84 games for the side. Apart from that, he has also played one Test and 56 ODIs.
Speaking on his retirement announcement, Andre Russell said, “Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life.”
“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 realise 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.”
Thank You, DRE RUSS!🫶🏽
For 15 years, you played with heart, passion, and pride for the West Indies 🌴
From being a two-time T20 World Cup Champion to your dazzling power on and off the field.❤️
WI Salute You!🏏#OneLastDance #WIvAUS #FullAhEnergy pic.twitter.com/bEWfdMGdZ7
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 16, 2025
Rusell’s retirement announcement comes after Nicholas Pooran quit international cricket in less than two months. However, it is clear that West Indies’ selectors were not expecting Russell’s announcement.
Andre Russell was part of the West Indies squad when they won T20 World Cup in 2012 and 2016.
Speaking on all-rounder’s T20I retirement, West Indies head coach Daren Sammy said, “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.”
Matthew Forde will be replacing Russell in the squad against Australia for the latter games. The T20I series of the tour is set to begin on July 21 at Sabina Park, Kingston.
