Steve Smith announces retirement from ODI Cricket after Champions Trophy exit
Australia’s star batter, Steve Smith, has officially announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket following his team’s exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 35-year-old played his final ODI in the semifinal against India in Dubai, where he top-scored for Australia with 73 runs, though his efforts couldn’t prevent a loss.
In a statement released by Cricket Australia, Smith revealed that he informed his teammates of his decision immediately after the semifinal. However, he will continue representing Australia in Test cricket and T20 Internationals.
Reflecting on his ODI career, Smith expressed gratitude for his journey and cherished the memories made along the way.
“It has been an incredible ride, and I’ve loved every bit of it,” Smith said.
“Winning two World Cups was a career highlight, alongside the great teammates I had the privilege to play with.”
He further explained that stepping away from ODIs would create opportunities for younger players to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.
“Now is the perfect time for the next generation to step up and start building towards the 2027 World Cup, so I believe this is the right moment to move on,” he added.
Despite retiring from ODIs, Smith remains committed to Test cricket, with his focus set on the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour, and the home Ashes series.
A pivotal figure in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cup triumphs, Smith captained the team following Michael Clarke’s retirement, leading Australia in 64 ODIs. He briefly resumed captaincy during the Champions Trophy, stepping in for the injured Pat Cummins.
George Bailey, chair of Cricket Australia’s selection panel, praised Smith’s contribution:
“Steve leaves ODIs as a two-time World Cup winner, cementing his place among Australia’s greatest players. His commitment to Test cricket remains unwavering, and he will continue to play a key leadership role in the team.”
Smith’s ODI career spanned 170 matches, where he amassed 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96, including 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His highest score of 164 came against New Zealand in 2016. Initially debuting as a leg-spinning all-rounder, he also contributed 28 wickets and 90 catches in the field.
With his ODI retirement, Australian cricket bids farewell to one of its finest modern-day batters, whose impact on the game will be remembered for years to come.
