Steve Smith announces surprising retirement from ODI cricket following Australia's Champions Trophy disappointment

Smith expressed his gratitude for the incredible journey, stating, "I have cherished every moment and it has been an amazing ride. The memories created, the experiences shared, and the joy of winning two World Cups will always hold a special place in my heart. I am so thankful for my incredible teammates who have been a part of this journey with me."

"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. 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's ODI legacy

Smith retires having scored 5800 runs from 170 ODIs for Australia, including 12 centuries, but more importantly as a two-time World Champions. He was part of Australia's World Cup-winning squads in 2015 under Michael Clarke and in 2023 under Pat Cummins. During his time with the Australian team, Smith succeeded Clarke as captain in 2015, and even though he had to give it up following the infamous ball-tampering scandal in 2018, he returned to the helm and held fort till the end with Cummins injured.

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"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," Cricket Australia's Chairman of Selectors George Bailey said.

"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."

Smith burst onto the international cricket scene in 2010, debuting as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. Complementing his run-scoring feats, Smith has also chipped in with the ball, taking 28 wickets at an average of 34.67. His excellence in the 50-over format has not gone unnoticed, earning him the Australian Men's ODI Player of the Year title in both 2015 and 2021, alongside a well-deserved spot in the ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year in 2015.

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