Australian cricketer Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket following Australia’s semi-final loss to India in the ICC Champions Trophy. At 35, Smith concluded his ODI career after 170 matches, amassing 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries.
Throughout his illustrious career, Smith played pivotal roles in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023. In the 2015 tournament, he notably scored five consecutive fifty-plus scores, including a crucial 105 in the semi-final against India and an unbeaten 56 in the final against New Zealand.
Smith’s leadership extended to captaining Australia in 64 ODIs, achieving a 50% win rate. His contributions were recognized with accolades such as inclusion in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015 and being named Australia’s ODI Player of the Year in 2014-15 and 2020-21.
Despite stepping away from ODIs, Smith remains committed to Test cricket and is available for T20I selection. He expressed enthusiasm for upcoming Test series, including the World Test Championship Final and matches against the West Indies and England.
Cricket Australia’s chief executive, Todd Greenberg, lauded Smith’s ODI career, highlighting his significant contributions to Australia’s success in the 50-over format. Chair of selectors, George Bailey, also praised Smith, emphasizing his legacy as one of Australia’s great ODI players.
As Smith transitions away from ODIs, his focus on Test cricket ensures that fans will continue to witness his exceptional skills and leadership on the international stage.
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