Steven Smith retires from ODIs: It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it

Steven Smith retires from ODIsSteven Smith.

Australian batsman Steven Smith has retired from ODI cricket.

Smith captained Australia during this year’s Champions Trophy. Australia exited the tournament after Tuesday’s semi-final defeat to India.

“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” said Smith on Wednesday.

“There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic team-mates who shared the journey.

“Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 Cricket World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way.”

Smith will remain available for Test selection. He has scored the 13th most runs in the history of Test cricket, including 36 centuries, and will likely be selected for this year’s World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s in London.

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,” he added.

Smith will also remain available for T20I selection.

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Cricket Australia chairman of selectors George Bailey added: “We fully understand and support Steve’s decision.

“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.

“Steve remains fully committed to Test cricket and is an integral member of and leader within that team.”

Cricket Australia chief executive officer Todd Greenberg concluded: “Congratulations to Steve on an amazing ODI career during which he has made a vast contribution to Australia’s performances in the 50-over format.

“Right up until his final ODI innings, Steve exhibited an incredible ability to accumulate runs in all conditions and his astute leadership has been crucial in the team’s ongoing success including the 2015 and 2023 World Cup victories.

“We’re fortunate Steve still has much to offer in the Test and T20I arenas and I look forward to witnessing the next stage of one of cricket’s great careers.”

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