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Steve Smith retires from ODI cricket
By SMCS - Mar 5, 2025 12:15 pm
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Star Australian batter Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One-Day International format. His final appearance in ODIs came in the Champions Trophy semifinal against India in Dubai where he top-scored for Australia with 73 in a losing cause as well.

Steve Smith
Steve Smith witnessed a dismissal on a ridiculous shot

However, he played 170 ODIs, scoring 5800 runs which came at an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96, including 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He finished his career as the 12th highest run-scorer for Australia in ODIs. He registered his highest score of 164 against New Zealand in 2016 as well. He also picked 28 wickets and took 90 catches as well.

According to a Cricket Australia media release, Smith told his team-mates after the semifinal defeat that he’ll retire from ODIs soon after. Smith, meanwhile, will continue to be available for Test cricket and Twenty20 Internationals as well.

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“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said. “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 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way,” he added. “Test cricket remains a priority and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies in the winter and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.”

Steve Smith
Steve Smith was shocked after his DRS dismissal

However, Steve Smith was a part of Australia’s ODI World Cup-winning squad in 2015 and 2023, and he took over the captaincy role of the 50-over side following the retirement of Michael Clarke as well. He captained Australia in 64 matches, winning 32 and losing 28, with four no results. He again took over the captaincy on an interim basis for the Champions Trophy, in place of Pat Cummins, who was ruled out due to injury.

Speaking about Smith’s decision, George Bailey, the chair of men’s selectors, said: “We fully understand and support Steve’s decision to retire from One Day International cricket. Steve has said on many occasions he is approaching the remainder of his playing career on a series-by-series basis, a position which hasn’t changed and one Cricket Australia supports. His record as a batter across 167 games is exemplary and to leave the format as a two-time World Cup winner cements his legacy as one of the great Australian ODI players. From an NSP standpoint, Steve remains fully committed to Test cricket and is an integral member of and leader within that team.”