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On Wednesday, March 5, a day after Australia’s four-wicket defeat against India in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, stand-in captain and veteran batter Steven Smith announced retirement from the 50-over format. The 35-year-old, who was the top run-scorer for the world champions in the semi-final on Tuesday, put down curtains from his ODI career, but will continue to play in Tests and T20Is.
It is to be noted that Smith communicated of his retirement after the match, which was brought into the media on Wednesday, March 5. “It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said.
Steve Smith retires from ODIs after Australia CT 2025 exit
The Aussie batter also added, “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 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way."
The Aussie veteran further went onto clarify that Test cricket will remain his priority as he looks at the WTC Final, where the defending champions will take on South Africa in June 2025. “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,” Smith added.
It is to be noted that after making his debut against West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder, Smith went onto play 170 ODIs, scoring 5800 runs at an average of 43.28. He also smashed 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries in the format, along with scalping 28 wickets.
