Steve Smith, the experienced Australian batsman, has declared his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket following his team's loss to India in the semi-final of the 2025 Champions Trophy on Tuesday. Smith, who was the top scorer for Australia with a total of 73 runs, promptly notified his teammates that he had played his final ODI match. At 35 years of age, he will, however, continue to participate in Test matches and T20 Internationals for his nation.

"It has been an incredible journey, and I have cherished every moment. There have been numerous remarkable experiences and unforgettable memories. Winning two World Cups stands out as a significant highlight, along with the many exceptional teammates who have been part of this journey," Smith remarked.

"This is an opportune moment for others to begin their preparations for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels appropriate to step aside. Test cricket will remain my focus, and I am eagerly anticipating the World Test Championship Final, the series against the West Indies this winter, and then the home series against England. I believe I still have much to offer at that level."

Steve Smith's ODI legacy

Smith concludes his One Day International career with an impressive tally of 5,800 runs from 170 matches for Australia, which includes 12 centuries. More significantly, he retires as a two-time World Champion, having been a member of the victorious Australian squads in the 2015 World Cup under Michael Clarke and the 2023 edition under Pat Cummins. He succeeded Clarke as captain in 2015, and despite stepping down following the notorious ball-tampering incident in 2018, he returned to lead the team until the end of his tenure, even during Cummins' injury.

During his captaincy, Smith led Australia in 64 ODIs, achieving 32 victories and suffering 28 losses. His leadership was marked by notable achievements, particularly in his inaugural year as full-time captain, where he guided the team to series victories against England and India. He also claimed the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy and secured a tri-series title against South Africa and the West Indies in the Caribbean in 2016. More recently, in the 2023-24 home summer, Smith successfully led Australia to a remarkable 3-0 clean sweep over the West Indies.

"We fully understand and support Steve's decision to retire from One Day International cricket. Steve has consistently indicated 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 endorses," stated George Bailey, Chairman of Selectors for Cricket Australia.

"His record as a batsman across 167 matches is outstanding, and retiring as a two-time World Cup winner solidifies his legacy as one of the great Australian ODI players. From the National Selection Panel's perspective, Steve remains fully dedicated to Test cricket and is a vital member and leader within that team."

Smith made his international debut in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. In addition to his remarkable run-scoring, he has contributed with the ball, taking 28 wickets at an average of 34.67. His exceptional performance in the 50-over format has been recognized, earning him the title of Australian Men's ODI Player of the Year in both 2015.

Read Also: Ravi Shastri Makes a ‘Tracer Bullet’ Comeback to Team India Dressing Room!

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!