Australia’s star batter Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) following the team’s loss from the Champions Trophy.
The 35-year-old played his farewell ODI in the semifinal against India in Dubai, when he top-scored for Australia with 73 runs in a losing effort. According to a Cricket Australia media statement, Smith told his teammates of his decision to retire from ODIs shortly after the semifinal defeat. He will still play Tests and T20 Internationals.
“It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” he remarked. “So many beautiful memories and amazing moments. The numerous outstanding teammates and two World Cup victories were highlights.”
Smith believes his retirement allows younger players to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.
“Now is a great opportunity for players to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels like the right time to step aside,” he said. “The World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour in winter, and the Ashes at home are my priorities in test cricket. I think I can still contribute at that level.”
The right-handed hitter helped Australia win the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups.
He captained the 50-over team when Michael Clarke retired, winning 32, losing 28, and having four no-results in 64 matches. He temporarily replaced injured Pat Cummins as Champions Trophy captain.
“We fully understand and support Steve’s decision to retire from One-Day International cricket,” selecting committee chair George Bailey said. Steve has often stated that he will approach the rest of his playing career series-by-series, a position Cricket Australia endorses.”
“His 167-game batter’s record is superb, and his two World Cup wins seal his position as a great Australian ODI player. From an NSP standpoint, Steve is totally dedicated to Test cricket and is an integral part and leader within that squad,” Bailey said.
Smith scored 5,800 runs at 43.28 and 86.96 in 170 ODI matches. He is Australia’s 12th-highest ODI run-scorer with 12 hundreds and 35 half-centuries.
His best score was 164 against New Zealand in 2016. Smith, a leg-spinning all-rounder, took 28 wickets and completed 90 field catches in his debut.
