Australia captain Steve Smith bids farewell to ODI cricket

Australia captain Steve Smith announced on Wednesday that he is retiring from the 50-over format after the Kangaroos' exit from the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy 2025.

The 35-year-old interim captain, standing in for Pat Cummins, told his team-mates of his decision to retire immediately after Australia's four-wicket defeat in the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against India in Dubai on Tuesday.

Despite the loss, Smith concluded the semi-final against India as the top scorer with 73 runs, contributing to his team's total of 264.

"It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it," said Smith in a Cricket Australia press release.

After making his debut against the West Indies in 2010 as a leg-spinning all-rounder, Smith went on to play 170 ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28.

He smacked 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, and was a member of Australia's 2015 and 2023 World Cup-winning teams.

"There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories," Smith said.

"Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic team-mates who shared the journey.

"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.

"Test cricket remains a priority and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final (in June), the West Indies in the winter and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage."