Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket following Australia’s exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The decision was made public after Australia suffered a four-wicket defeat to India in the semi-final match held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 4, 2025.
Background and Career Highlights
Steve Smith, 35, has been one of the most prolific cricketers for Australia in the ODI format. He made his ODI debut against the West Indies in 2010 and went on to play 170 matches, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28.
His ODI career includes 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a highest score of 164 against New Zealand at the SCG in 2016. Smith was a key member of Australia’s World Cup-winning teams in 2015 and 2023, contributing significantly to both victories.
Smith also captained Australia in 64 ODI matches, achieving a 50% winning rate.
His captaincy highlights include series victories against England and India, securing the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy, and winning a tri-series against South Africa and the West Indies in the Caribbean in 2016.
Recently, he led Australia to a 3-0 sweep against the West Indies during the 2023-24 home summer.
Retirement Announcement
Smith informed his teammates about his decision to retire from ODIs immediately after India’s semi-final defeat. In a statement, he expressed his gratitude for the experiences and memories made during his ODI career, highlighting the wins of two World Cups as major highlights.
“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said. “There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey. Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way,” he added.
Future Plans
Despite retiring from ODIs, Smith will remain available for selection in Test cricket and T20 Internationals.
He emphasized that Test cricket remains a priority for him, looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies series in the winter, and then England at home.
There is also speculation about his potential participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where T20 cricket will make its Olympic debut.
Reaction and Legacy
Cricket Australia has expressed support for Smith’s decision, acknowledging his significant contributions to Australian cricket.
CEO Todd Greenberg praised Smith’s incredible ability to accumulate runs in all conditions and his astute leadership, which has been crucial in the team’s success, including the World Cup victories.
Smith’s retirement marks the beginning of a significant transition in Australia’s ODI team ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
His departure will allow younger players to step up and prepare for the upcoming tournament. Despite his ODI retirement, Smith remains an integral figure in Australian cricket, particularly in the Test format, where he continues to be a key player and leader.
