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Test Cricket Still Priority: Smith Explains Why He Retired From ODIs But Not Tests And T20Is
Follow UsSmith has his eyes set on future goals, which are ultimate achievements in a cricketer’s career in both the Tests and T20Is
Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODIs on March 5 (Wednesday). But he will continue to play Tests and T20Is. The reasoning behind prioritising Tests for Smith is his love for the longest format and a wish to probably retire after the home Ashes in 2026.
"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,” Smith said in a statement after announcing his ODI retirement, following a loss to India in the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
While Home Ashes farewell remains his focal target point for bidding adieu to Tests, it includes yet another opportunity to win a World Test Championship on his way to that, when Australia play South Africa from June 11 onwards at Lord’s.
His attachment to T20Is relates to his maiden appearance in the Olympics in the hope of an Olympic medal, the ultimate sporting achievement in an athlete’s career. Smith has talked about his ambitions to play LA28.
“I’d like to play in the Olympics. I reckon that would be cool. We’ll see how far I go in terms of long-form cricket. But I am going to play short-form cricket for a while, I think when I do finish,” Smith told Fox Cricket during Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25.
Reflecting on his ODI career, where he won two World Cups and created a lot of memories, including hitting 164 against New Zealand, Smith said, "Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey,” said the 35-year-old.
“Now is a great opportunity for people to start preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup so it feels like the right time to make way,” he added.
George Bailey, National Selection Panel (NSP) chair, said that Cricket Australia and NSP are in coherence with Smith’s decision and future goals.
"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," Bailey said in a statement.
