#OnTheUp: The Dre Russ birthday bash 2019
Such as birthday 'bashes' – in every sense. On the night before he turned 31, Andre Russell did what he usually does. He bashed, if you will, a 40-ball 80*, doing his bit to break Kolkata Knight Riders' six-match losing streak.
The Birthday boy! 🎈
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) April 28, 2019
The Man of the hour 🎉
The Man of the match 🏆#KKRvMI #VIVOIPL #IPL #KorboLorboJeetbo #KKRHaiTaiyaar @Russell12A #DreRuss #AndreRussell pic.twitter.com/AZyZnKxTl4
Smiles and Birthday wishes for the Birthday boy @Russell12A from his darling wife at the Eden Gardens tonight @KKRiders #IPLSelfie #VIVOIPL 💜💜💜 pic.twitter.com/klMzySBFwg
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 28, 2019
And a performance that good deserved a special gift.
The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 might be just a month away, but Aaron Finch, the Australia captain, isn't letting on-field rivalries come in the way of genuine admiration for two of India's greatest cricketers.
At the other end of the humility spectrum, there was the self-styled Universe Boss Chris Gayle ...
I need a welcome too for showcasing Jamaica to the universe. #333Boss https://t.co/T1raqSsOvD
— Chris Gayle (@henrygayle) April 26, 2019
... and even the Jamaican Prime Minister found himself unable to resist his charms.
You’re most welcome Mr Prime Minister, @AndrewHolnessJM. Thank you 🙏🏿 https://t.co/N7gPIaFZVD
— Chris Gayle (@henrygayle) April 26, 2019
The week also made us ponder the circle of life. While their cricketing journey was just beginning for some ...
... for others, it came to a satisfying end.
So many incredible memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you to the ThunderNation for their unwavering support and all of the players and support staff who made my time @ThunderBBL so unbelievably special. I will miss you all. pic.twitter.com/bmEPS3Dcxv
— Shane Watson (@ShaneRWatson33) April 27, 2019
Last day wearing the blazer for @Irelandcricket and @IrishWomensCric It's been quite a year! Best wishes to my successor David O'Connor. pic.twitter.com/0ntSUi7e0m
— Aideen Rice (@AideenRice) April 28, 2019
And what of life after retirement? Going by this good-natured ribbing, it is a lot of fun!
I talk this much rubbish! https://t.co/4vgSkfqtS2
— Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) April 23, 2019
Last week, Kevin Pietersen came out with a documentary. This week, it's Faf du Plessis's turn.
Enjoyed co-writing this script with @OfficialCSA . All from the heart and authentic in the team space. Truly believe that I/We have a bigger purpose than just cricket. pic.twitter.com/Ca2BVllqEh
— Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) April 25, 2019