KINGSTON, Jamaica – Andre Russell turned back the hands of time, if only for a brief moment, in a spectacular display of power hitting against Australia in his last international appearance for the West Indies on Tuesday night.
Andre Russell (right) receives a token of appreciation from Jamaica’s Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange prior to the start of the second T20I against Australia.The 37-year-old Jamaican arrived at the crease with the Windies struggling on 98 for five in the 14th over and proceeded to hit a whirlwind 36 off just 15 balls, inclusive of four sixes and two fours, to bring the large crowd at Sabina Park to its feet.
When he was dismissed, caught by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis off the bowling of Nathan Ellis, he was congratulated by all of the Australian players before leaving to a standing ovation.
An emotional Russell wiped tears from his eyes as he made the way up the stairs, where he was embraced by his teammates and coaching staff, signaling the end of a sterling 15-year international career.
And while he did not bow out in winning fashion, with the Windies losing by eight wickets, Russell, who before the start of the match came out to a guard of honor from both West Indies and Australia and was also honored by Jamaica’s Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange, relished the moment.
“Thanks again to the people at Sabina Park, thanks to the West Indies Cricket Board for making this possible. I’m very grateful to end my career here, playing in front of my home crowd, family and friends.
“The result didn’t go my way but at the end of the day I’m happy and grateful and I wish the boys all the very best and I wish them luck moving forward,” Russell said at the end of the match.
“I will most remember the two World Cups that we won and seeing the flags flying high and going all over. I really, really appreciated that, but at the end of the day I feel like it’s time for me to just hang it up and wish the guys all the best moving forward.
“I think we have a good bunch of guys, the all-rounders that we have in Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder is back and fit and Matthew Forde and all the guys. I’m very grateful for this amazing international career, finishing it home at Sabina Park and I just want to say thanks again to the fans and keep supporting,” he added.
