On Wednesday, after suffering a frustrating 4-wicket defeat to the Indians, Australian captain Steve Smith officially announced his retirement from the One Day Internationals. Smith, who has featured in 170 ODIs for Australia, decided that it was the right time to step away from the format and allow new talent to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Smith played a crucial role in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 World Cup victories. Known for his consistency and ability to perform under pressure, he amassed 5,800 runs at an impressive average of 43.28, including 12 centuries and 35 fifties. His highest ODI score of 164 came against New Zealand in 2016 at the SCG. As a captain, Smith led Australia in 64 ODIs, securing major series wins against England, India, and the West Indies. The 35-year-old cricketer expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had in the ODI format. In a press release today, Smith expressed, "It feels like the right time to make way. It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it," Smith said in a release today. 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. 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." Read also: Gambhir Slams Critics Over India’s Champions Trophy Advantage A New Era to begin for Australian Cricket Smith’s retirement signals the beginning of a new phase for Australian ODI cricket. With veteran players like David Warner already retired and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis recently stepping away from ODIs, Australia is undergoing a transition. The team’s future now rests on younger talents stepping up ahead of the next World Cup in 2027. Cricket Australia and the National Selection Panel praised Smith’s contribution to the format. In a recently released statement, chief Selector George Bailey 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. 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. From an NSP standpoint, Steve remains fully committed to Test cricket and is an integral member of and leader within that team." Fans will still witness Smith’s mastery in Test cricket, where he remains one of the finest batsmen of his generation. As he focuses on red-ball and T20 formats, his departure leaves a legacy that will inspire the next wave of Australian cricketers.