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Australian batting stalwart Steve Smith has officially announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket following Australia’s four-wicket loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final in Dubai. According to Cricket Australia, the 35-year-old, who top-scored for Australia in the crucial knockout match with 73 runs, informed his teammates immediately after the game about his decision. Cricket Australia later confirmed the news, stating that Smith will continue to play Test cricket and T20 Internationals,
The announcement marks the end of a remarkable 14-year career in the 50-over format for Smith, who transformed from a leg-spinning all-rounder to one of Australia’s most dependable and technically sound batters. His contributions to Australian cricket, particularly in ICC tournaments, will be remembered as he played an instrumental role in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023.
A glittering ODI career: From all-rounder to batting mainstay
Smith made his ODI debut in 2010 against the West Indies, originally selected as a leg-spinning all-rounder. However, as his career progressed, his batting skills took center stage, and he became a vital cog in Australia’s middle order. Over the course of 170 ODIs, he amassed 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96, scoring 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His highest ODI score of 164 against New Zealand at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in 2016 remains one of his most memorable innings.
One of Smith’s defining traits was his ability to perform under pressure, especially in ICC tournaments. He was a key part of Australia’s 2015 World Cup-winning squad, playing a crucial knock in the final against New Zealand, where he remained unbeaten and hit the winning runs. His presence in the 2023 World Cup-winning team further solidified his legacy as a player who delivered when it mattered most.
Aside from his batting prowess, Smith also had a short but impactful stint as Australia’s ODI captain. He took over the leadership role in 2015, guiding Australia to major series victories, including:
- A dominant Chappell-Hadlee Trophy win over New Zealand
- A tri-series victory against South Africa and West Indies in the Caribbean
- A 3-0 series sweep against the West Indies during the 2023-24 home summer
His leadership and ability to anchor Australia’s innings in crucial situations made him one of the most respected figures in world cricket. Smith’s final ODI innings saw him play a determined knock of 73 runs in the Champions Trophy semi-final against India, top-scoring for his side in a losing effort. His record of 10 half-centuries in ICC World Cups is the most by any Australian player, highlighting his big-match temperament.
Also READ: Steve Smith explains the reason behind Australia’s defeat against India in the semi-final of Champions Trophy 2025
3 key reasons behind Steve Smith’s sudden retirement from ODIs
1. Preparing for the next generation ahead of the ODI World Cup 2027
Smith believed that stepping aside now will allow Australia to build a fresh squad in preparation for the ODI World Cup 2027. With several young batters emerging, he feels this is the right time for him to make way for the next generation of Australian cricketers. Speaking about his decision, Smith said:
“Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup, so it feels like the right time to make way,” Smith was quoted as saying by Cricket.com.au.
Australia have a history of planning long-term strategies for ICC events, and Smith’s decision aligns with this vision. Players like Cameron Green, Josh Inglis and Jake Fraser-McGurk are expected to take on bigger roles in the team moving forward.
2. Prioritizing test cricket and the World Test Championship
Smith has always been a strong advocate for Test cricket, and with multiple high-profile red-ball series coming up, he wants to focus solely on the longest format. He remains an integral part of Australia’s Test setup, and with the next World Test Championship final on the horizon, he aims to contribute heavily in red-ball cricket.
“Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship final, the West Indies in the winter, and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage,” Smith added.
With the Ashes series and the potential series against India lined up in the future, Smith wants to channel his energy into prolonging his Test career and maintaining his high standards in red-ball cricket.
3. A possible focus on T20 internationals and the 2028 Olympics
Although Smith has retired from ODIs, he has not stepped away from T20 cricket, suggesting that he still has goals to accomplish in the shortest format. There is strong speculation that Smith could target the Los Angeles Olympics 2028, where T20 cricket will make its debut as an Olympic event.
Australia’s selectors may see Smith as a valuable asset in major T20 tournaments, given his experience and adaptability. His ability to anchor an innings in challenging conditions could be vital in ICC T20 World Cups as well. Smith’s decision also allows him to focus on playing franchise cricket, where he has been sought after by T20 leagues worldwide, including the IPL, BBL, and other global tournaments.
