Steve Smith retires from ODIs after Champions Trophy semi-final defeat to India | Cricket News
Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day International Cricket after top-scoring in Australia’s ICC Champions Trophy semi-final defeat against India in Dubai on Tuesday.
Smith told teammates after the match he would retire from ODI cricket immediately. According to a statement released by Cricket Australia, Smith will continue to be available for Tests and T20Is.
After making his debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a spin-bowling all-rounder, Smith went on to play 170 ODIs scoring 5800 runs at 43.28 including 12 centuries and 35 half centuries and took 28 wickets at 34.67. A member of Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup winning teams, Smith became ODI captain in 2015 and held the captaincy in his final match on an interim basis in the absence of injured Pat Cummins during the Champions Trophy.
Smith set up the semi-final against India in Dubai after he opted to bat first on a dry pitch. Steering Australia on a tacky pitch, Smith made 73 off 96 deliveries as Australia set a 265-run target that India eventually overhauled to reach their third successive Champions Trophy final.
“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 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.
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“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 was Australian Men’s ODI Player of the Year in 2015 and 2021 and a member of the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015.
