After Australia's elimination from the Champions Trophy, Australian batsman Steve Smith declared his retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket. The 35-year-old took this decision after Australia lost to India by four wickets in the semi-final match played in Dubai.
Among the Smith's notable achievements during his ODI career are the two World Cup wins in 2015 and 2023. He scored 5,800 runs in 170 ODI matches at an average of 43.28 and an 86.96 strike rate .Smith's best score is 164 against New Zealand at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2016. He has an outstanding record that includes 12 hundreds and 35 half-centuries.
Smith made his debut as a bowling all-rounder and has since developed into one of Australia's best hitters. In high-pressure scenarios Australia's batting lineup has benefited greatly from his versatility and technique. Notably, he helped lead Australia to the 2015 World Cup final against India with a century in the semi-final.
In addition to his skill as a batter, Smith has had a significant impact as a leader. he captained Australia with a 50% win rate in 64 ODI matches. During his time as captain, he led his team to tri-series victories in 2016 against South Africa and the West Indies, as well as also wins different series against top opponents.
Beyond just batting, he was a vital asset in the field because of his ability to impact games. Smith's quickness and rapid reflexes show in his 90 catches in ODIs, which further highlights his outstanding fielding skills.
Steve Smith Career Batting Stats:
Steve Smith Career Bowling Stats:
Smith praised his ODI experience when he announced his retirement, saying, "It has been an amazing journey and I have loved every minute of it." "Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way,".
Despite his retirement from ODIs, Smith remains committed to Test and T20 cricket. He has indicated interest in playing in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where Twenty20 cricket is expected to make its international debut, and is especially focused on the forthcoming World Test Championship final.
Smith's significant influence on cricket was recognized by Cricket Australia. The National Selection Panel's chair, George Bailey, said, "His record as a batter across 170 games is exemplary and to leave the format as a two-time World Cup winner presents his legacy as one of the great Australian ODI players." Todd Greenberg, our CEO, said, "We're fortunate Steve still has much to offer in the Test and T20 arenas.
Smith's exit from ODIs indicates a change in direction for the Australian cricket team. Since David Warner and other senior players have already retired, the squad is preparing to bring in fresh talent in preparation of upcoming international tournaments.
Smith proved his eternal class and brilliance by scoring a heroic 73 runs against India in his final ODI innings. Both cricketing colleagues and fans will remember his ODI contributions with respect and admiration.