Australia’s star batsman Steve Smith announced on Wednesday that he will retire from the 50-over format following Australia’s exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 35-year-old, who captained the team in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins, made the decision after Australia’s four-wicket defeat to India in the semi-final on Tuesday in Dubai.
Smith, who top-scored for Australia with 73 runs in their total of 264 all out, informed his teammates of his retirement immediately after the match. He expressed his gratitude for the journey, saying, “It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” in a statement released by Cricket Australia.
Smith made his ODI debut in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. Over the course of his career, he played 170 ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28. He was instrumental in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 World Cup victories, amassing 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries along the way.
Read More:
Reflecting on his remarkable career, 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.”
Steve Smith also stated that his decision to retire from the 50-over format would allow younger players to prepare for the 2027 World Cup, saying, “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.”
Despite his retirement from ODIs, Smith will continue to represent Australia in Test cricket and T20 internationals. He added, “Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final in June, the West Indies tour in the winter, and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.”
Comments are closed.