Retire moment as Andre Russell waves to fans during his final T20I match for West Indies at Sabina Park, Jamaica.
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T20I Retire announcements don’t get more emotional than this. Andre Russell, the explosive West Indian all-rounder, will call time on his international career during the T20I series against Australia. As per cricholic, the 37-year-old will feature in the first two games at Sabina Park, Jamaica — his birthplace and home turf — before exiting the national setup. He will not travel to St. Kitts and Nevis for the remaining matches.

This marks the end of an era for West Indies cricket, as one of its most dynamic performers bows out.

🔹 T20I Retire Confirmed: Russell Bids Farewell in Jamaica

Russell’s decision to retire from international cricket is timed with the home leg of the six-match series. Known for his brutal hitting, electric fielding, and useful pace bowling, Russell has left an unforgettable mark on T20 cricket.

He finishes with 84 T20I caps, scoring 1,078 runs and claiming 61 wickets for West Indies. More significantly, he was part of the T20 World Cup-winning squads in 2012 and 2016, contributing to West Indies’ dominance in the shortest format.

While his international journey ends, Russell remains a franchise cricket icon. With 561 T20 appearances worldwide, his numbers are staggering: 9,316 runs at a strike rate of 168.31 and 485 wickets. From IPL to CPL to Big Bash, he has been a game-changer in every tournament.

🔹 Retire Opens Door: Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades Debut

As one star exits, two new ones enter. The squad announcement from Cricket West Indies (CWI) on July 16 confirmed the maiden T20I call-ups of Jewel Andrew and Jediah Blades — two bright prospects for the Caribbean future.

  • Jewel Andrew (18), a stylish wicketkeeper-batter, debuted in ODIs last October. He has impressed selectors with his aggressive intent, especially against spin. Andrew’s clean hitting and confident body language have made him one to watch. His ability behind the stumps also adds to his value.
  • Jediah Blades, a left-arm fast bowler, made his international debut during the Bangladesh ODIs in December 2024. In the West Indies Breakout League, he dominated the PowerPlay overs, earning the most wickets and widespread praise for his control and pace.

Their inclusion signals a transitional phase in West Indies cricket — the retirements of senior pros are paving the way for youth.

🔹 Retire Era Ends: Full West Indies T20I Squad vs Australia

The 16-member squad blends experience with youth. Alongside Russell and the two debutants, senior players like Shai Hope, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, and Rovman Powell bring stability. Power-hitters like Hetmyer and Lewis, along with all-rounders like Shepherd and Forde, provide depth and firepower.

✅ Full Squad:

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

🔹 Retire Stage Set: Jamaica and St. Kitts to Host Series

The six-match T20I series will take place from June 20 to June 28.

  • Sabina Park, Jamaica hosts the first three matches, including Russell’s final games.
  • Warner Park, St. Kitts will host the last three.

Fans in Jamaica will witness the last international games of one of their greatest entertainers. Expect a full house and high emotion as Russell walks off the field one last time in maroon.