Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh expressed heartfelt sentiments regarding Steve Smith's retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket, following a loss to India in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Smith, who stepped in as captain for Australia in the absence of regular leader Pat Cummins, will continue to participate in T20 Internationals and Test matches. Yuvraj reminisced about Smith's debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Sahara Pune Warriors in 2012.

"Steve, I vividly recall the young man who joined the Pune Warriors camp in 2012—eager to learn and determined to establish himself. Witnessing your evolution into one of the game's greats has been truly remarkable," Yuvraj shared in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

The 2011 ODI World Cup Player of the Tournament emphasized that Smith's influence transcends statistics, asserting that his legacy will motivate future generations to engage with the sport.

"From those formative years to becoming a two-time World Cup champion, your journey exemplifies dedication and resilience. Your influence on the game extends beyond mere figures—your tenacity, ambition, and capacity to excel in critical moments have solidified your status as a true champion.

"As you conclude your ODI career, remember that you have established a legacy that will inspire many. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors, my friend!" he concluded.

In his final ODI innings, Smith emerged as the top scorer for Australia, amassing 76 runs from 96 balls. However, his team suffered a four-wicket defeat to India in Dubai on Tuesday night, narrowly missing the chance to advance to the tournament final.

Smith was a key player in Australia's victorious ODI World Cup campaigns in 2015 and 2023, which he described as significant highlights of his career in this format.

“It has been a remarkable journey, and I have cherished every moment,” Smith stated. “Now presents an excellent opportunity for others to begin their preparations for the 2027 World Cup, making it the appropriate time for me to step aside.”

In the Test format, which spans five days, Smith has accumulated 10,271 runs in 116 matches, including 36 centuries and 41 half-centuries, boasting an impressive average of 56.74 per innings.

His upcoming challenge will be Australia's effort to defend the World Test Championship title in the final against South Africa at Lord's in June, followed by a Test tour to the Caribbean. Australia will also host the Ashes series against England starting in November.

“Test cricket continues to be my priority, and I am eagerly anticipating the World Test Championship Final, the tour of the West Indies, and then facing England at home,” Smith remarked. “I believe I still have much to offer at this level.”

Having made his international debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning allrounder, Smith has played 170 ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, which includes 12 centuries.

Smith was named Australia's ODI player of the year in both 2015 and 2021 and was included in the International Cricket Council's ODI team of the year in 2015.

George Bailey, chairman of Australia's selection committee, stated that Smith remains "fully committed to Test cricket and is a vital member and leader within that team."

“Steve has consistently expressed that he is approaching the remainder of his playing career on a series-by-series basis, a stance that remains unchanged and one that Cricket Australia supports,” Bailey noted. “Departing the format as a two-time World Cup winner solidifies his legacy as one of the greats in Australian ODI history.”

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