Steven Smith has announced his retirement from ODI cricket following Australia’s semi-final loss to India in the Champions Trophy. However, he remains available for Test and T20I selection. The 35-year-old informed his team-mates immediately after the defeat that it was his last ODI match, ruling him out of the 2027 World Cup despite captaining Australia in Pat Cummins’ absence.
“It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said. “Winning two World Cups was a great highlight, along with the fantastic team-mates who shared the journey. Now is the right time to make way for the next generation as they prepare for the 2027 World Cup.”
Smith reaffirmed his commitment to Test cricket and is eager for the upcoming World Test Championship final, the West Indies tour, and the Ashes series at home. He believes he still has a lot to contribute in the longest format.
He has taken a series-by-series approach to his career, leaving his long-term future uncertain. While he referenced the Ashes later this year, his availability beyond that remains unclear, with tours to India and England in 2027 on the horizon.
Although Smith is not currently in Australia’s T20I plans, he has expressed interest in representing Australia at the 2028 Olympic Games in T20 cricket. He remains available for selection if needed.
Smith retires as one of Australia’s finest ODI batters, despite ranking 12th in the country’s all-time run-scorers list. He played a crucial role in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 World Cup victories, including his match-winning performances in the 2015 semi-final and final.
