Steve Smith retires from ODI cricket after Champions Trophy semi-final

Australian cricket star Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs) following his side’s ICC Champions Trophy semi-final against India on Wednesday.

Smith, who top-scored for Australia in the match, informed his teammates after the game that he would be stepping away from the 50-over format with immediate effect.

The veteran batter, however, confirmed that he would continue to be available for Test and T20 International cricket.

Smith, 34, departs as one of Australia’s most accomplished ODI players, having made his debut in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder before evolving into one of the format’s most reliable middle-order batters. In 170 ODIs, he amassed 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 fifties. He also took 28 wickets at 34.67.

A two-time ICC World Cup winner, Smith played a pivotal role in Australia’s triumphs in 2015 and 2023. He first captained the ODI side in 2015 and was leading the team on an interim basis in his final match in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins.

Reflecting on his ODI career, Smith said it was the right time to step aside.

“It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” he said. “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.”

Smith added that Test cricket remains his priority, with upcoming assignments including the World Test Championship Final, a tour of the West Indies, and the home Ashes series against England.

Cricket Australia (CA) Chief Executive Todd Greenberg lauded Smith’s contribution to the ODI side.

“Congratulations to Steve on an amazing One Day International career. Right up until his final innings, he exhibited an incredible ability to accumulate runs in all conditions,” Greenberg said. “His astute leadership has been crucial in Australia’s success, including the 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup victories.”

Men’s selection chief George Bailey also paid tribute to Smith, acknowledging his remarkable consistency in the format.

“Steve’s 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,” Bailey said.