By Karan Agrawal 
Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODI cricket with immediate effect following Australia’s loss against India in the semifinal of the 2025 Champions Trophy on Tuesday. Smith led Australia in 64 ODI matches and ended up winning 32 of them, with 28 losses and four no results. The right-hander took over the captaincy after Michael Clarke’s retirement after the 2015 ODI World Cup. A media release by Cricket Australia stated that Smith said to the teammates after the match against India that he has decided to retire from ODIs and will continue to play Test and T20I. “It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said. “There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight, along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey.”
The Decision
The former Australian captain scored a much-needed half-century in the semifinal against India and was dismissed after missing a full toss from Mohammed Shami. Talking about the future of Australian cricket, Smith said, “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.” he added. “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.”
The Reaction
Reacting to Smith’s decision, George Bailey, the chairman of Australia’s men’s selection committee, said, “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.” “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.”
The Career
Smith made 170 appearances for Australia in ODIs and scored 5800 runs at an average and strike rate of 43.28 and 86.96, respectively, with 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries registered to his name. Smith is the 12th highest run scorer for Australia in ODIs, with his highest score being 164, which he made against New Zealand in 2016. Having started his career as a leg spinner, the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cup winner ended up picking 28 wickets and taking 90 catches in the format.