Tags: Australia,
Steven Peter Devereux Smith
Revealed on: Mar 05, 2025
Australia’s star batter, Steve Smith, has introduced his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs), bringing an finish to a stellar profession within the 50-over format. Smith’s last ODI look got here within the Champions Trophy semifinal towards India in Dubai, the place he top-scored for Australia with 73 runs in a shedding effort.
A Wonderful ODI Profession
The 35-year-old middle-order batter featured in 170 ODIs for Australia, amassing 5,800 runs at a formidable common of 43.28 and a strike price of 86.96. His profession statistics embody 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a career-best knock of 164 towards New Zealand in 2016. Initially debuting as a leg-spinning all-rounder, Smith additionally contributed with the ball, taking 28 wickets, and displayed his sharp fielding expertise by grabbing 90 catches.
In keeping with an announcement from Cricket Australia, Smith knowledgeable his teammates of his determination instantly after Australia’s semifinal exit within the Champions Trophy. Whereas stepping away from ODIs, Smith has reaffirmed his dedication to Check cricket and T20 Internationals.
Smith’s Reflections and Future Plans
Reflecting on his ODI journey, Smith expressed gratitude for his experiences and achievements.
“It has been a terrific trip, and I’ve cherished each minute of it,” Smith mentioned. “There have been so many wonderful occasions and great reminiscences. Profitable two World Cups was a terrific spotlight, together with the numerous improbable teammates who shared the journey.”
Smith was an integral a part of Australia’s ODI World Cup-winning squads in 2015 and 2023. He additionally captained the nationwide aspect in 64 matches, profitable 32 and shedding 28, with 4 video games ending with out a end result. Within the latest Champions Trophy, he stepped in as interim captain within the absence of Pat Cummins, who was sidelined resulting from damage.
As he steps away from ODIs, Smith sees it as a chance for the following technology to arrange for the 2027 World Cup. “Now is a good alternative for folks to start out getting ready for the 2027 World Cup, so it looks like the correct time to make means,” he acknowledged. “Check cricket stays a precedence, and I’m actually wanting ahead to the World Check Championship Remaining, the West Indies collection, after which the Ashes at residence. I really feel I nonetheless have quite a bit to contribute in that format.”
Reactions from Cricket Australia
Cricket Australia’s Chair of Selectors, George Bailey, praised Smith’s contribution to Australian cricket and revered his determination to retire from the ODI format.
“We totally perceive and help Steve’s determination to retire from One Day Worldwide cricket,” Bailey mentioned. “His file as a batter is exemplary, and to go away the format as a two-time World Cup winner cements his legacy as one of many nice Australian ODI gamers. From our standpoint, Steve stays totally dedicated to Check cricket and continues to be a key participant and chief throughout the workforce.”
A Lasting Legacy
Smith’s influence on Australian cricket has been immense. From his early days as a promising all-rounder to turning into one of many world’s most technically proficient batters, his contributions to ODI cricket might be remembered for years to come back. With a exceptional profession behind him within the 50-over format, Smith now units his sights on additional success in Check and T20 cricket.
As Australia seems to be forward to a brand new period in ODI cricket, Smith’s achievements will function an inspiration to future generations aiming to don the inexperienced and gold. His retirement marks the tip of an period, however his legacy in Australian cricket stays stronger than ever.
