March 5, 2025: Australian cricket star Steve Smith has announced his surprise retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket following Australia's exit from the ICC Champions Trophy. The decision comes after Smith top-scored in Australia's semi-final defeat against India on Tuesday.
The 35-year-old informed his teammates after the match that he would be stepping away from the 50-over format immediately. However, he remains available for Test cricket and T20 Internationals, ensuring his continued presence in Australian colors.
Smith departs as one of Australia's most decorated ODI players, having made his debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder before transforming into one of the game's finest batsmen. Over 170 ODIs, he amassed 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, while also contributing 28 wickets with the ball.
A key figure in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup triumphs, Smith captained the side from 2015 to 2018 and even led the team in his final ODI on an interim basis in Pat Cummins' absence. His achievements include being named Australia’s Men’s ODI Player of the Year (2015, 2021) and earning a spot in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year (2015).
Reflecting on his career, Smith said:
"It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it. Winning two World Cups was a highlight, along with sharing the journey with many fantastic teammates. Now is a great opportunity for the next generation to prepare for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels like the right time to step aside."
While stepping away from ODIs, Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket, stating:
"Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies series, and the Ashes at home against England. I still feel I have a lot to contribute at that level."
Cricket Australia (CA) Chief Executive Todd Greenberg lauded Smith’s impact on the team, saying:
"Congratulations to Steve on an amazing ODI career. His contributions to Australia’s performances in the 50-over format have been immense, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy."
Smith's retirement marks the end of an era in Australian ODI cricket, leaving a void in the middle order as the team begins preparations for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
Steve Smith Shocks Cricket World with Sudden ODI Retirement After Champions Trophy Exit
March 5, 2025: Australian cricket star Steve Smith has announced his surprise retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket following Australia's exit from the ICC Champions Trophy. The decision comes after Smith top-scored in Australia's semi-final defeat against India on Tuesday.
The 35-year-old informed his teammates after the match that he would be stepping away from the 50-over format immediately. However, he remains available for Test cricket and T20 Internationals, ensuring his continued presence in Australian colors.
Smith departs as one of Australia's most decorated ODI players, having made his debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder before transforming into one of the game's finest batsmen. Over 170 ODIs, he amassed 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, while also contributing 28 wickets with the ball.
A key figure in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup triumphs, Smith captained the side from 2015 to 2018 and even led the team in his final ODI on an interim basis in Pat Cummins' absence. His achievements include being named Australia’s Men’s ODI Player of the Year (2015, 2021) and earning a spot in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year (2015).
Reflecting on his career, Smith said:
"It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it. Winning two World Cups was a highlight, along with sharing the journey with many fantastic teammates. Now is a great opportunity for the next generation to prepare for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels like the right time to step aside."
While stepping away from ODIs, Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket, stating:
"Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies series, and the Ashes at home against England. I still feel I have a lot to contribute at that level."
Cricket Australia (CA) Chief Executive Todd Greenberg lauded Smith’s impact on the team, saying:
"Congratulations to Steve on an amazing ODI career. His contributions to Australia’s performances in the 50-over format have been immense, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy."
Smith's retirement marks the end of an era in Australian ODI cricket, leaving a void in the middle order as the team begins preparations for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.