Australian cricket star Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), concluding a distinguished 13-year career in the format. The 36-year-old all-rounder made the decision to concentrate on the shorter formats of the game, particularly with an eye on the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
A Stellar ODI Career
Maxwell’s ODI journey began in 2012, and over the years, he became known for his explosive batting, handy off-spin bowling, and exceptional fielding. In 149 ODIs, he amassed 3,990 runs at an average of 33.81, boasting a strike rate of 126.7—second only to Andre Russell among players with over 2,000 runs. His bowling contributions included 77 wickets, often providing crucial breakthroughs for Australia.
One of Maxwell’s most memorable performances came during the 2023 World Cup against Afghanistan. With Australia struggling at 91 for 7, Maxwell delivered an unbeaten 201, steering his team to an improbable victory. This innings is widely regarded as one of the greatest in ODI history.
Reasons Behind the Decision
Injuries have played a significant role in Maxwell’s decision to retire from ODIs. A leg injury in 2022 and a recent hand injury have impacted his physical performance, particularly in the field. Maxwell acknowledged that the physical demands of the 50-over format were taking a toll on his body.
“I always said I wasn’t going to hand my position over if I felt like I was still good enough to play. I didn’t want to just hold on for a couple of series and almost play for selfish reasons,” Maxwell stated.
Focus on T20 and Franchise Cricket
Despite stepping away from ODIs, Maxwell remains committed to T20 cricket. He has been a vital part of Australia’s T20 setup, contributing to their 2021 T20 World Cup victory. With 116 T20 Internationals under his belt, Maxwell aims to play a pivotal role in Australia’s campaign at the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Additionally, Maxwell’s retirement from ODIs allows him to focus on various franchise leagues worldwide, where his aggressive batting and all-round capabilities are highly sought after.
Tributes and Legacy
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg praised Maxwell’s contributions, stating, “Glenn’s ballistic batting has lit up the cricket world and been one of the cornerstones of Australia’s continued success in the 50-over game.”
Maxwell’s departure marks the end of an era for Australian ODI cricket. His dynamic playing style, ability to change the course of a match, and charismatic presence have left an indelible mark on the sport.
As Maxwell transitions to focus solely on T20 cricket, fans and teammates alike will remember his ODI career with admiration and gratitude.
