Australia failed to advance to the finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after suffering a four-wicket loss to the Rohit Sharma-led team in the first semifinal. Star batter Steve Smith surprised the cricket world by announcing his retirement from One Day International cricket on Wednesday, March 5.
Smith made his ODI debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder. However, he went on to become one of the greatest ODI players for Australia. He amassed 5,800 runs in 170 ODIs at an average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 fifties. Smith also took 28 wickets at an average of 34.67.
I Have Loved Every Minute of It – Steve Smith
Steve Smith expressed gratitude for the memories he created in his ODI career. He described it as an incredible experience and cherished every moment. The former Australia captain highlighted winning two World Cups as one of the biggest achievements of his career.
“It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said (as quoted by Sport Star).
“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.
It Feels Like the Right Time to Make Way – Steve Smith
Steve Smith stated that his retirement from ODIs provides an opportunity for others to prepare for the 2027 World Cup. He stated that Test cricket remains his priority. Smith added that he still has a lot to contribute in the longest format of the game.
“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,” Smith continued.
“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 concluded.
Steve Smith Was Member of Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup-Winning Squads
Australia opted to bat first and scored 264 runs in 49.3 overs. Steve Smith was Australia’s top scorer with 73. The team had a chance to surpass 300 runs but failed to capitalize due to frequent wicket losses at the end.
Steve Smith was a key member of Australia’s 2015 and 2023 ICC World Cup-winning squads. He took over as ODI captain in 2015 and led the team in his final match as an interim skipper in the absence of Pat Cummins. Under his leadership, Australia reached the semi-finals but were knocked out by India.
Smith earned several accolades in his ODI career, including being named Australia’s Men’s ODI Player of the Year in 2015 and 2021 and securing a spot in the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year in 2015.
Also read: KL Rahul hits back on questions over his ODI spot; namedrops Rohit Sharma
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