Australia Faces Another Blow! Steve Smith Announces Sudden ODI Retirement After Champions Trophy Exit

INDC Network : Cricket  : Steve Smith Retires from ODIs After Champions Trophy Exit

Australia Suffers a Double Setback

Australia's campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 ended on a disappointing note as they suffered a four-wicket defeat against India in the semi-finals. However, the setback deepened further as veteran cricketer Steve Smith announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs). The decision came as a surprise to many fans and analysts, given his immense contribution to Australian cricket. Cricket Australia officially confirmed Smith’s retirement on Wednesday.

Smith’s Retirement – A Decision Taken in Silence

Steve Smith, who led Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins, reportedly informed his teammates about his decision immediately after the loss to India. While his role as a leader in this tournament was temporary, his presence in the squad has been pivotal for over a decade. He will, however, continue to represent Australia in Test cricket.

Kohli-Smith Moment Sparks Speculation

Following India’s victory, a heartfelt moment between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith caught everyone’s attention. The two modern-era greats shared an emotional hug, which many believe could have been Smith’s way of informing Kohli about his decision. While there is no official confirmation on whether Kohli was aware of Smith’s impending retirement, the gesture fueled discussions among cricket enthusiasts.

A Legendary ODI Career Comes to an End

Steve Smith’s ODI journey has been nothing short of exceptional. Since his debut in 2010, Smith played 170 ODIs, amassing 5,800 runs at an impressive average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96. His highest individual score in ODIs remains 164. Throughout his career, he smashed 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Although his Champions Trophy 2025 campaign wasn’t remarkable, he managed to score 97 runs across three innings, with 73 being his highest score against India. His last innings saw him bowled out by Mohammed Shami on a full-toss delivery.

Test Cricket Remains a Priority for Smith

Despite retiring from ODIs, Steve Smith has no plans to step away from Test cricket anytime soon. He has been one of the most dominant Test batsmen of the modern era. With 10,271 runs in 116 Tests at an average of 56.75, Smith has cemented his place among cricketing greats. His record includes 36 centuries, 41 half-centuries, and four double centuries, with a highest score of 239. He remains a key figure for Australia’s upcoming Test series against England and West Indies, as well as the World Test Championship final.

T20 International Career Also on the Sidelines

Smith's presence in Australia’s T20I squad has been limited in recent years. He has played 67 T20 Internationals, scoring 1,094 runs at an average of 24.86 and a strike rate of 125.46. While he has five half-centuries in the format, he has not been a regular part of the T20 setup, making his ODI retirement more of a strategic decision to focus on Test cricket.

Smith’s Retirement – The End of an Era in Australian Cricket

Steve Smith’s ODI retirement marks the end of an era in Australian cricket. A crucial member of Australia’s World Cup-winning squads in 2015 and 2023, his absence will leave a significant void in the team. With younger players ready to step up, Smith's decision could pave the way for fresh talent in the ODI format.