Tags: Australia,
Steven Peter Devereux Smith
Printed 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 ultimate ODI look got here within the Champions Trophy semifinal in opposition to 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 embrace 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a career-best knock of 164 in opposition to 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 abilities by grabbing 90 catches.
In accordance with a press release from Cricket Australia, Smith knowledgeable his teammates of his choice 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 an important trip, and I’ve cherished each minute of it,” Smith mentioned. “There have been so many superb instances and fantastic reminiscences. Successful two World Cups was an important spotlight, together with the numerous incredible 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 no consequence. Within the current Champions Trophy, he stepped in as interim captain within the absence of Pat Cummins, who was sidelined because of damage.
As he steps away from ODIs, Smith sees it as a possibility for the following era to organize for the 2027 World Cup. “Now is a good alternative for individuals to begin making ready for the 2027 World Cup, so it seems like the suitable time to make method,” he acknowledged. “Check cricket stays a precedence, and I’m actually wanting ahead to the World Check Championship Last, the West Indies collection, after which the Ashes at dwelling. 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 choice to retire from the ODI format.
“We totally perceive and assist Steve’s choice to retire from One Day Worldwide cricket,” Bailey mentioned. “His file as a batter is exemplary, and to depart 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 group.”
A Lasting Legacy
Smith’s influence on Australian cricket has been immense. From his early days as a promising all-rounder to changing into one of many world’s most technically proficient batters, his contributions to ODI cricket will probably 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 appears to be like 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.
