Australian Legend Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket 

Australia’s cricket legend Steve Smith has called time on his illustrious One-Day International (ODI) career, bringing an end to his 170-match journey in the 50-over format. The 35-year-old made the announcement following Australia’s four-wicket loss to India in the semi-final of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai.

Smith, who led the Australian team with distinction for much of his ODI career, revealed that the decision to retire from the format “feels like the right time.” He shared the news with his teammates after the match, signaling the conclusion of a golden era for the 50-over side, where Steve Smith has been one of the pivotal figures.

“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said in a statement. “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 ODI World Cup, so it feels like the right time to make way.”

Despite his retirement from ODIs, Smith confirmed that he will remain available for selection in both Test and T20I formats.

Steve Smith finishes his ODI career as one of Australia’s all-time greats. Over 170 appearances, he accumulated 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, with a strike rate of 86.96. His tally includes 12 centuries and 35 fifties, with a highest score of 164 against New Zealand in 2016. Smith’s remarkable consistency and leadership were key to Australia’s successes, including their victories in the 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cups.

Steve Smith also captained Australia in 64 ODI matches, winning 50% of his games against some of the toughest opposition. A solid performer in ICC events, Smith’s contributions were also instrumental in Australia’s World Cup-winning campaigns in 2015 and 2023. His steadying presence and match-winning knock in the 2023 final against India highlighted his ability to deliver on the big stage.

In his final ODI appearance, Smith top-scored for Australia with 73 runs from 96 balls in the semi-final loss to India. His performances throughout his career made him the most prolific Australian ODI player, with 10 half-centuries in World Cups, the most by any Australian.

Steve Smith’s ODI Career Stats:

Steve Smith’s decision marks the end of a stellar ODI career but signals the start of a new era for Australian cricket as they look to build toward future challenges. Smith’s legacy, however, is firmly cemented as one of the all-time greats of the format.