Steven Smith retires from ODI format effective immediately

DUBAI: Australian batter Steven Smith, who was filling in as captain for Pat Cummins, retired from competing in the ODI format effective immediately on Wednesday.

After suffering a loss to India in the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy, Smith announced that he would no longer be competing in the format. However, he will still be available for T20Is as well as for the red ball format.

Smith has scored 5800 runs in the ODI format, and has made an impressive 12 centuries, and 35 half centuries. His highest score in the format came against New Zealand in December of 2016, when he scored 164 runs.

Smith reminisced on his success in the format and the people he was able to share the field with.

“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.”

Smith’s excellent performances in 2015, which included a century in the semi-final against India, and an unbeaten 56 against New Zealand in the final, helped propel Australia to a world cup victory.

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The 35-year-old has captained Australia in the format an incredible 64 times, and led them to victory 32 of those times.

The Australian batter is still excited to compete in the test format, referencing the upcoming World Test Championship final between the Aussies and South Africa, which is set for June 11 at Lord’s. He also mentioned Australia’s upcoming tour of West Indies later that same month, which will feature three tests and five T20Is. Smith also discussed the Ashes, which is taking place in Australia this year. The five match test series will take place between late November and early January.

Smith also mentioned his desire to represent Australia in T20Is at the Olympics. He was not selected in Australia’s 2024 T20 World Cup squad but is available for selection for upcoming games.

Former Australian cricketer, captain, and chair of selectors George Bailey lauded Smith for his incredible performances in the format.

“His record as a batter across 170 games is exemplary and to leave the format as a two-time World Cup winner cements his legacy as one of the great Australian ODI players.”

Also read: Smith, Carey help Australia to 264 against India in semi-final