Steve Smith Calls Time on ODI Career After Successful 14-Year Run

Dubai: Australian cricket star Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs), concluding a remarkable 14-year career in the 50-over format. Smith will remain available for selection in Test matches and T20 Internationals, focusing on his future in these formats.

Smith made the announcement shortly after Australia’s semi-final defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy, where he scored 73 runs in his final ODI innings. This decision brings down the curtain on a stellar career that has seen Smith become one of Australia’s greatest players.

Over his career, Smith featured in 170 ODIs, scoring a total of 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28, with a strike rate of 86.96. He recorded 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, placing him as the 12th highest run-scorer in Australian ODI history. Smith also contributed with the ball, taking 28 wickets and claiming 90 catches throughout his career.

Smith was part of Australia’s World Cup-winning sides in both 2015 and 2023, and he led the team for a significant period after Michael Clarke’s retirement, captaining Australia in 64 matches, with 32 wins and 28 losses. He captained the side temporarily during the Champions Trophy, stepping in for Pat Cummins, who was unavailable due to injury.

Following the loss to India, Smith informed his teammates of his decision to retire from ODIs, with Cricket Australia confirming the news soon after. Although Smith will no longer play ODIs, he is committed to continuing his career in Test cricket and T20 Internationals.

Reflecting on his career, Smith shared, “It has been a great ride, and I’ve loved every minute of it. Winning two World Cups was a highlight, along with the many fantastic teammates I’ve had along the way. Now it’s the right time to step aside and allow the team to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.”