After Australia lost to India in the Champions Trophy semi-final, Australian cricket legend Steven Smith declared his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs). The 35-year-old is open to playing in the T20 format but is still dedicated to Test cricket.
Following Tuesday’s defeat in Dubai, Smith told his teammates in the dressing room that his storied ODI career was coming to an end. Despite filling in as captain during the Champions Trophy in Pat Cummins’ absence, his decision means he will not play in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
A Career Packed with Memorable Experiences
Smith reflected on his experience and conveyed his appreciation for the chances he was given in ODI cricket.
Smith said in a statement, “I have loved every minute of it, and it has been a great ride.” “There have been countless incredible moments and priceless memories. Along with the many amazing teammates who accompanied me on the journey, winning two World Cups was a great highlight.
Smith emphasized that Australia’s need to get ready for the future had an impact on his choice.”It seems like the right time to make way because there is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup.”
Test cricket continues to be a top priority
Smith is still dedicated to Test cricket even though he has stopped playing ODIs, especially with important games coming up.
“I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship final, the winter tour of the West Indies, and then playing England at home. Test cricket is still my top priority.” On that stage, I think I still have a lot to offer.
Smith has frequently approached his career series by series, and his mention of the Ashes later this year implies that he will at least stick with it for another home summer. But with possible away series against England and India in 2027, it’s unclear if he will stick around after 2025–2026.
T20 Ambitions and the 2028 Olympics Dream
Smith has not ruled out playing T20 again, despite not being included in Australia’s 2024 World Cup squad. He has stated that he would like to play for Australia in the T20 cricket competition at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. He is still available for selection in the condensed format if needed.
One of Australia’s Best ODI Batters
Despite finishing 12th on Australia’s all-time run-scorers list, Smith retires as one of the best ODI hitters of all time. He had a huge impact:
- There are only five Australians who have scored more ODI hundreds than him (12).
- David Warner is the only one of those five with a higher batting average.
- Smith was instrumental in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023. His 2015 performances stood out in particular because he: Achieved five straight scores of fifty or higher.
- hit 105 against India in the semifinals.
- hit the winning runs at the MCG with a vital 56 not out in the final against New Zealand.In addition to winning
- Australia’s ODI Player of the Year title twice (2014–15 and 2020–21), he was included in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year (2015). His consecutive 62-ball hundreds against India at the SCG in 2020 are still regarded as some of the greatest ODI innings ever by an Australian batsman.
Captaincy Legacy in ODIs
From 2015 to 2025, Smith led Australia in 64 One-Day Internationals. The only Australian captains with more ODI leadership are Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Mark Taylor, and Michael Clarke. Smith is still the only person who has never served as a World Cup captain, though.
What’s Next for Smith?
Smith will be playing for Welsh Fire in The Hundred in August, when Australia will play South Africa in their next ODI. Smith is anticipated to participate in more franchise cricket opportunities in the latter stages of his career after retiring from 50-over cricket.
Smith, who has influenced some of Australia’s most spectacular moments on the international scene, leaves behind a legacy as one of the nation’s greatest cricketers as he says goodbye to ODIs.
