Australian ODIs World Cup Winning Captain Steven Smith Announces His Retirement
Australian ODI captain announced his retirement from ODIs on the 5th of March. He made his international ODI debut for the Australian team in 2010 against West Indies in Melbourne. He started his career as a leg-spinner who could bat as well but ended his career as one of the best batsmen ever for Australia. He is known for his unique and unorthodox batting style.
Steven Smith’s ODI career
Steven Smith had a decent One Day International career with 170 matches and a total of 5800 runs with an average of 43.28 and a Strike rate of 86.96. He ended his career as the 12th-highest run-getter for Australia in ODIs.
The management has been given the responsibility of leading the Australian team in the absence of their regular captain Pat Cummins. He was the highest run scorer for his team in the match with 73 runs, however, Australia lost the match in the end. He has been part of the World Cup-winning team for Australia twice, in 2015 he was the captain of the team and in 2017 as a player.
| No. of ODI Matches | Total runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 170 | 5800 | 43.28 | 86.96 | 12 |
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Steven Smith’s and George Bailey’s Statement
As per the Cricket Australia media release, Smith told his teammates after the semifinal loss that he would retire from ODIs immediately. Smith will continue to be available for Test cricket and T20 Internationals. “It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith said. There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey.
He further said “Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way,” he added. “Test cricket remains a priority and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies in the winter and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.”
The chair of Australian men’s selectors, George Bailey, has also given his statement, he said: “We fully understand and support Steve’s decision to retire from One Day International cricket. Steve has said on many occasions he is approaching the remainder of his playing career on a series-by-series basis, a position which hasn’t changed and one Cricket Australia supports.
Steven Smith Wife’s reaction after the announcement of Retirement
Steven Smith’s wife Dani Wills has not given any reaction yet on the retirement of Smith from One Day Internationals. It will be updated as soon as any reaction comes from her.