Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to an eventful career that saw him establish himself as one of the most explosive and unpredictable players of his generation. The decision, revealed on Tuesday, also ends his hopes of receiving an international farewell at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Known affectionately as ‘The Big Show’, Maxwell entertained cricket fans with his aggressive batting, innovative strokeplay and valuable off-spin bowling. He represented Australia in 149 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), 130 T20 Internationals (T20Is) and seven Test matches, playing a significant role in several major tournament victories.
The 38-year-old was part of Australia’s victorious squads at the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups, as well as the 2021 T20 World Cup. He scored 3,990 runs in ODIs and 2,897 runs in T20Is, while also claiming 128 wickets in the two white-ball formats.
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Speaking on an episode of The Final Word podcast released on Tuesday, Glenn Maxwell confirmed that he would step away from international cricket and domestic 50-over and four-day cricket for Victoria. “I’m going to be announcing my retirement from international cricket and domestic games for Victoria in the 50 over and the four-day stuff, red ball completely,” he said.
Exclusive: Glenn Maxwell tells the world he’s played his last games for Australia.
“I am extremely grateful. Hopefully, I’ve inspired some kids to play differently, to be open and vulnerable. To not shy away, to be themselves.” https://t.co/qG4yLakMVH
— The Final Word (@Final_Word_Pod) November 2, 2026
BREAKING: Australia allrounder Glenn Maxwell announces his retirement from international cricket https://t.co/z2j8ZXQv9l
— Cricinfo (@cricinfo) November 2, 2026
Maxwell explained that prioritising his fitness and managing his body had become increasingly important as he looked towards the remaining tournaments in his career.
His last international appearance came against Oman at the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka in February. He remains one of only two players, alongside India’s Rohit Sharma, to have scored five international centuries in T20 cricket.
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Glenn Maxwell had already retired from ODIs last year. He had hoped to receive a farewell appearance at the MCG against England this month, but Australia’s latest squad announcement ended that possibility. “There was, I suppose, a small hope or discussion that I might have been able to potentially get a send-off game at the MCG, but I can completely understand the direction they’re going with this squad,” he added.
