I want to be known as a legend: Andre Russell
West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell wants to end his international career as a legend. Russell's unbeaten 92 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in the third ODI against India went in vain but his innings was the highest by a No.9 batsman.
- Indo-Asian News Service
- Updated: June 13, 2011 01:03 pm IST
West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell wants to end his international career as a legend.
Russell's unbeaten 92 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in the third ODI against India went in vain but his innings was the highest by a No.9 batsman.
"When I retire from international cricket, I want to be called a legend. I want to stay here and contribute as much as I can," he said.
Russell hit eight fours and five sixes in a 64-ball knock to help West Indies reach a respectable 225 for eight from 50 overs.
The batsman said he was nervous when he walked in at 96 for seven.
"When I went in I was not nervous. I actually ran all the way to the crease. I was pumped up from the start, and I knew the team needed me in a big way. I was batting with a senior partner, so I knew I had enough time to get myself settled, build an innings and get a good score for the team.
"It was set up for me. I was able to get my eye in and then play my natural game. I knew I had the power to clear the boundaries, so I knew once I got the start and batted to the 45th over, I could get the benefits in the last five overs."
"I felt I played really well," he said. "What made this innings special for me was the fact that it was under great pressure, and it came against India. As a cricketer, you always like to test yourself against the best. As a young man, trying to make a name for myself, I just want to continue to do well for West Indies and work hard on my game."
Russell said the innings gave him lot of confidence and self-belief.
"I would have to say, the only regret is that we ended on the losing side. I see myself as a bowler first. That is the skill I work on the hardest, so I know I have to make some big contributions to the team with the ball as well," he said.