Steve Smith Retires from ODI Cricket After Champions Trophy Exit
Australian cricketer Steve Smith has announced his retirement from one-day international (ODI) cricket following his team’s semi-final loss at the Champions Trophy. The 35-year-old batsman, who played a key role in Australia’s success in the format, bows out with two World Cup titles to his name.
Smith was Australia’s top scorer in their four-wicket defeat against India in Dubai on Tuesday, scoring 73 runs. Despite stepping away from ODIs, he confirmed that he remains available for Test matches and T20 internationals.
“It has been an incredible journey, and I’ve cherished every moment,” Smith stated in a release from Cricket Australia. “Winning two World Cups stands out as a highlight, along with the amazing teammates I’ve shared this experience with. Now feels like the right time to step aside and allow others to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.”
Since making his ODI debut in 2010 as a spin-bowling all-rounder, Smith has amassed 5,800 runs in 170 matches, averaging 43.28 with 12 centuries. He played a crucial role in Australia’s 2015 World Cup victory on home soil, scoring five half-centuries, including an unbeaten 56 in the final. He was also part of the squad that reclaimed the title in 2023 in India.
Smith captained Australia’s ODI team from 2015 to 2018 before being removed from the role following the ball-tampering controversy during a Test series in South Africa. After serving a one-year suspension from international cricket, he re-established himself across all three formats. This year, he returned as a stand-in Test captain during the Sri Lanka tour and led the ODI side in the Champions Trophy.
Looking ahead, Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket. “Test cricket remains my top priority, and I’m excited about upcoming challenges, including the World Test Championship final, the West Indies series, and our home Ashes against England,” he said. “I still feel I have a lot to offer in the longer format.”
Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, expressed support for Smith’s decision, acknowledging his significant contribution to the ODI format.
“Steve has always taken his career series by series,” Bailey noted. “His record as a batter is outstanding, and leaving as a two-time World Cup champion cements his legacy as one of Australia’s finest ODI players.”
