Steve Smith Announces Surprise Retirement from ODI Cricket After Australia's Champions Trophy Exit

Steve Smith, one of Australia's finest cricketers, has announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket after Australia’s exit from the 2025 Champions Trophy following a loss to India in the semi-finals. The 35-year-old, who had been a key player for Australia for over a decade, confirmed his decision shortly after top-scoring with 73 runs in the match. Smith, however, will continue to represent Australia in Test and T20I cricket.

SMITH REFLECTS ON HIS CAREER

“It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve enjoyed every moment,” Smith said in an emotional statement. “There have been so many unforgettable moments and cherished memories, like winning two World Cups, and I’ve had the privilege of sharing this journey with some truly remarkable teammates.”

Smith cited the upcoming 2027 World Cup as the perfect opportunity for new talent to emerge, adding that it felt like the right time for him to step aside from ODIs. “I feel it’s the right moment for others to start focusing on the future. My priority now is Test cricket, and I’m looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour, and then the Ashes series at home. I still feel I have much to contribute in the longer format.”

A LEGENDARY ODI CAREER

Smith’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable ODI career in which he scored 5,800 runs in 170 matches, including 12 centuries. His achievements in the format include being part of two World Cup-winning teams, in 2015 and 2023. He also succeeded Michael Clarke as captain in 2015, and despite stepping down after the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, Smith returned to lead the team when Pat Cummins was injured.

As captain, Smith led Australia in 64 ODIs, securing 32 wins and 28 losses. His leadership included memorable series victories over England and India, as well as triumphs in the 2016 Chappell-Hadlee Trophy and a tri-series win in the West Indies against South Africa and the West Indies. More recently, Smith captained Australia to a dominant 3-0 clean sweep over the West Indies during the 2023-24 home summer.

CRICKET AUSTRALIA’S SUPPORT 

Cricket Australia's Chairman of Selectors, George Bailey, expressed full support for Smith’s decision. “We fully understand and respect Steve’s decision to retire from ODIs. Steve has always said he’s taking his career on a series-by-series basis, and Cricket Australia supports that approach,” Bailey stated. “His record as a batter is exemplary, and retiring as a two-time World Cup winner further solidifies his legacy as one of Australia's greatest ODI players. We’re grateful for his contributions to Australian cricket.”

A VERSATILE CRICKETER

Smith’s international career began in 2010 when he debuted as a leg-spinner against the West Indies. Over time, he evolved into one of the best batters in the world, amassing runs in all formats. In addition to his batting prowess, Smith also contributed with the ball, taking 28 wickets at an average of 34.67. His exceptional performances in the 50-over format earned him the Australian Men’s ODI Player of the Year award in both 2015 and 2021, and a place in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015.

Though Smith’s time in ODIs has come to a close, his commitment to Test cricket ensures that he will continue to be a key figure for Australia in the years ahead.

SMITH’S LEGACY IN AUSTRALIAN CRICKET

Steve Smith’s retirement from ODIs marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. His contributions to the team, both as a player and leader, have been pivotal in shaping the success of the Australian side over the past decade. As he transitions to focusing on Tests and T20Is, fans will continue to remember his legacy as one of the finest cricketers Australia has ever produced.