Source : Jamaica Observer
ALTHOUGH expected to walk away from international cricket this year, Jamaica’s star all-rounder Andre Russell says he’s targeting a place in the West Indies squad for the Twenty20 (T20) World Cup in 2026.
Since last December the 36-year-old, who has 82 T20 international caps, became a regular staple in the Caribbean side again, after a two-year absence.
Two-time World Cup-winner Russell, who is regarded as one of the most revered players in the shortest versions of the game, made a positive impact on his return as he recorded two half-centuries and 21 wickets in 15 innings.
In June, West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy said Russell is a valuable member of the squad, heading into the World Cup.
“What Andre brings to the table for us is his experience, calmness in different roles, and leadership. I am thrilled to have him in the squad, as I am for all the other guys. Over the last year we have been a team that is gelling better and putting consistent performances on the field — and Russell has significantly contributed to that,” Sammy said.
However, after this summer’s hosts were knocked out of the Super 8 stage of the tournament it was expected that Russell would retire from international cricket and focus on franchise cricket in the likes of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
Despite requesting to be rested for the West Indies’ series against South Africa last month, Russell says he will be back in the coming months.
“I’ve talked with Sammy and he said he wants me to keep playing some international cricket, and I think by looking around and seeing the talents that’s in the Caribbean I think I’m going to push my body and push myself to play international cricket for another two years,” said Russell.
Although he will be 38 in two years’ time, Russell believes he can still make an impact and lead the team to glory in India and Sri Lanka.
“[I] definitely want to play the World Cup of 2026,” he said. “I could have walked away from the game international-wise but I just want to see the youngsters do well in terms of all-rounders. I still can hit the ball anywhere I want to hit the ball, still bowling at a good pace, still fit, can move around. I don’t see why I should stop.”
The Jamaican also hailed Trinbago Knight rider teammate and former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo for the impact he’s had on his career.
“I think me being who I am today, Bravo has a lot to do with it. I used to wicketkeep, then I started bowling and batting at number 10, number 11 and number nine. Watching him play in Test cricket for West Indies, bowling good pace, fielding and diving and all those things, and then when he comes to bat he gets the job done [was inspiring],” said Russell.
Russell could have a busy end to the year if selected as the West Indies will have T20 International series against Sri Lanka in October, England in November, and Bangladesh in December.
Over his career Russell has played over 500 T20 matches with over 8,000 runs over 450 wickets. He’s won several franchise titles in the IPL, CPL, Australia, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Andre Russell (right) of West Indies hits a six as Jos Buttler of England watches during the first Twenty20 Intrnational at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, on December 12, 2023.Photo: AFP