Andre Russell gets emotional guard of honour in final international match, signs off with explosive 36; watch video

In a heartfelt and celebratory moment at Sabina Park, Andre Russell bid farewell to international cricket on Tuesday, receiving a guard of honour from both West Indies and Australian players—accompanied by roaring applause from fans—as he took to the field for the second and final T20I against Australia

The 37-year-old Jamaican all-rounder, renowned for his explosive batting and magnetic presence, closed out his international career in trademark style: smashing 36 runs off just 15 balls—featuring four massive sixes and two boundaries—at an astonishing strike rate of 240.00



Although West Indies posted a competitive 172/8, it was Russell’s swansong that captured the spotlight.

Earlier, Australia won the toss and chose to field, yet the focus remained firmly on Russell, who had announced his retirement prior to the series

From his retirement statement

“Words cannot explain what it meant. To represent the West Indies has been one of the proudest achievements in my life.”

“I wanted to leave a mark in the maroon colours and become an inspiration to others. I love playing at home in front of my family and friends... I want to finish my international career on a high while being a role model for the next generation.”

Russell’s international career spans 143 caps, including 86 T20Is, 56 ODIs, and one Test, and includes two T20 World Cup victories in 2012 and 2016.

As he walked off the field at his beloved Sabina Park, both teammates and opposition players formed a proud procession in his honour—a poignant end to a career that helped define a generation of West Indies T20 cricket

[With inputs from TOI]