Steve Smith Retires from ODI Cricket After Champions Trophy Exit
Steve Smith has announced retirement from ODI cricket.
Steve Smith, a senior Australian cricketer, has decided to retire from One Day International (ODI) cricket. He made this announcement after Australia lost to India in the semi-final of the Champions Trophy 2025. Smith, who was Australia’s top scorer in the match with 73 runs, informed his teammates that it was his last ODI game. However, he will continue playing Test and T20 cricket for Australia.
Steve Smith has played 170 ODI matches for Australia. He scored 5800 runs and hit 12 centuries. He was a key part of Australia’s World Cup-winning teams in 2015 and 2023.
Smith became Australia’s captain in 2015, taking over from Michael Clarke. However, in 2018, he had to step down due to a ball-tampering controversy. Later, he returned to lead the team again when Pat Cummins was injured. As captain, Smith led Australia in 64 ODI matches, winning 32 and losing 28.
Memorable Moments
Smith’s captaincy had many great moments. In 2016, he led Australia to victory in a tri-series against South Africa and West Indies. He also won the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy against New Zealand. In the 2023-24 home season, Smith guided Australia to a 3-0 series win over West Indies.
Smith made his international debut in 2010 as a leg-spin all-rounder. Along with his batting, he has taken 28 wickets in ODIs. His performances earned him the Australian Men’s ODI Player of the Year award in 2015 and 2021. He was also included in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015.
Why is Smith Retiring?
Smith feels that this is the right time to step away from ODIs. He believes young players should start preparing for the 2027 World Cup. He will now focus on Test cricket and upcoming series against West Indies and England.
“It has been a great journey, and I have loved every moment. Winning two World Cups was a special achievement,” Smith said.
Even though Smith is retiring from ODIs, he will continue to play Test and T20 cricket. Fans will still see him in action in important matches for Australia.
