Russell won’t retire before 2026 T20 World Cup

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):

EXPLOSIVE WEST Indies all-rounder Andre Russell will not hang up his cricket boots until after the completion of the 2026 T20 World Cup, scheduled to be jointly held by India and Sri Lanka.

In a change of heart, the 36-year-old Russell, who had signalled his intention to retire at the end of the 2024 T20 World Cup, said following conversations with West Indies white-ball head coach Daren Sammy, he had made the decision to extend his international career.

Interestingly, Russell, a power hitter, dynamic fielder and useful medium pacer, played his first T20 for the West Indies in 2023 after a two-year absence, after also being convinced by Sammy to return.

“I’ve talked with Sammy and he said he wants me to keep playing some international cricket,” Russell said.

“And I think by looking around and seeing the talent 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.

“[I] definitely want to play the World Cup of 2026 because there is a lot of talent that you know could have.

“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.”