Australian captain Steve Smith has officially retired from ODI cricket, making the announcement following Australia’s four-wicket defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final. The 35-year-old, who temporarily took over the captaincy from Pat Cummins, confirmed that the match was his last in the 50-over format, bringing an end to a stellar ODI career.
Smith, a two-time ODI World Cup winner, played a crucial role in Australia’s limited-overs dominance, cementing his place as one of the game’s finest batsmen. Reflecting on his journey, Smith expressed gratitude for the memories, teammates, and achievements that defined his career.
“It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said in a statement. “Winning two World Cups was a major highlight, along with sharing the journey with so many fantastic teammates. Now is the right time to step aside and allow the next generation to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.”
Smith’s decision marks the end of an era for Australian cricket, with selectors now looking toward a new leadership and batting core as they build for the future. While Smith steps away from ODIs, his future in Test and T20 cricket remains uncertain, leaving fans eager for further updates on his playing career.
