Steve Smith announces retirement from ODI cricket following Australia's exit from the Champions Trophy

Steve Smith, the veteran Australian batter, has announced his retirement from ODI cricket following Australia's defeat to India in the semi-final of the 2025 Champions Trophy on Tuesday.

Smith, who top-scored for Australia with 73 runs, immediately informed his teammates that this was his final one-day international. The 35-year-old, however, will continue representing Australia in Tests and T20Is.

Reflecting on his ODI career, Smith said, "It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it. There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight, along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey."

He added, "Now is a great opportunity for others to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup, so it feels like the right time to step aside. Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies tour in the winter, and then the home series against England. I feel I still have a lot to contribute at that level."

Smith retires as a two-time World Cup winner, having scored 5,800 runs in 170 ODIs, including 12 centuries. He was part of Australia's victorious World Cup squads in 2015 under Michael Clarke and in 2023 under Pat Cummins.

During his international career, Smith took over the Australian captaincy from Clarke in 2015. Although he stepped down following the ball-tampering scandal in 2018, he later returned to a leadership role, assisting Pat Cummins when required.

Cricket Australia's Chairman of Selectors, George Bailey, praised Smith's contributions, stating, "We fully understand and support Steve's decision to retire from ODIs. He has always approached his career on a series-by-series basis, and that hasn't changed. His record as a batter across 167 games is outstanding, and leaving the format as a two-time World Cup winner cements his legacy as one of Australia's greatest ODI players."

Smith made his international debut in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder against the West Indies. Beyond his batting exploits, he has also contributed with the ball, taking 28 wickets at an average of 34.67.

His excellence in the 50-over format earned him the Australian Men's ODI Player of the Year award in 2015 and 2021, as well as a place in the ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year in 2015.