Gades’ Russell aims for instant BBL impact
Shayne Hope |
Andre Russell is here for a good time, not a long time.
The power-hitting West Indian allrounder has set his sights on making an immediate BBL splash during a four-game cameo with the Melbourne Renegades.
“I always try to put myself in the firing line for whichever team I’m playing for,” gun-for-hire Russell told reporters after touching down in Melbourne on Monday.
“If I was here for the entire season, I wouldn’t start off blocking. I would try to start off the season as healthy as possible.
“I’m definitely looking forward to giving the team a good head start and hopefully set them on their way.”
Russell was overlooked at the BBL draft due to his limited availability but received a call-up from the Renegades when Liam Livingstone was selected in England’s Test squad for the tour of Pakistan.
The 34-year-old right-hander will be replaced by New Zealand opener Martin Guptill after featuring in matches against the Brisbane Heat (December 15 and 21), Sydney Thunder, (December 18) and Hobart Hurricanes (December 24).
Russell averaged just 13 with the bat during the recent Abu Dhabi T10 tournament but showcased his hitting ability for Deccan Gladiators in their semifinal, smacking 63 off 32 balls.
“I never doubt myself. I know what I can do,” Russell said.
“I didn’t really get enough chance to bat in the T10 tournament recently but that don’t take anything away from my skills and anything I can do.
“I’m always positive and I’m going to hit the ground running.”
Russell played seven games for the Renegades during his first BBL season, in 2014-15, and has since played with the Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Stars.
He re-joins a Renegades team brimming with experience, led by a powerful batting line-up that features Guptill, Aaron Finch, Nic Maddinson and Peter Handscomb.
“The team that they have this year is a lot more (well-rounded),” Russell said.
“We have to make sure that we start off as well as possible. Once you start off well in any tournament you pave the way.”
AAP
