Glenn Maxwell Retires from ODI Cricket: Australian cricket fans got an emotional update today as one of their most exciting players, Glenn Maxwell, officially announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs). Known for his fearless batting and all-round abilities, Maxwell has decided to step away from the 50-over format to focus more on T20s, especially with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup coming up in India and Sri Lanka.
Glenn Maxwell’s ODI Retirement: Things to Know
- Played 149 ODIs for Australia
- Scored 3990 runs with a strike rate of 126.70
- Took 77 wickets with his off-spin
- Was part of Australia’s World Cup-winning squads in 2015 and 2023
- His best ODI knock: 201* vs Afghanistan in 2023 World Cup
- Retired to prepare for 2026 T20 World Cup and focus on T20 leagues like BBL
- Final ODI was against India in the 2025 Champions Trophy
A career full of firepower and memorable moments
Maxwell started his ODI journey in 2012, and no one imagined he would go on to become such a game-changer. Over the years, fans have witnessed some unforgettable innings from him, but the most iconic one was surely his 201 not out against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup. That innings was not just about runs, but about courage and spirit—he batted with cramps, pain, and still brought his team back from a hopeless situation.
He leaves ODIs with four centuries and 23 fifties, but more than stats, it’s the impact he made on matches that people will remember.
Maxwell opens up on why he decided to retire
In a heartfelt chat on the Final Word Podcast, Maxwell said, “I felt like I was letting the team down a little with how my body was reacting. I spoke to George Bailey (Chair of Selectors), and told him I don’t think I’ll be there for the 2027 World Cup. So it’s better to let others prepare and grow into the role now.”
He added, “I’ve always believed that if I wasn’t contributing fully, I shouldn’t hold on just for the sake of playing. It’s time to step away and allow new talent to shine.”
Maxwell wants to give his best in T20 cricket now
Maxwell’s retirement from ODIs doesn’t mean he’s done. In fact, he’s now shifting full focus to the T20 format. Cricket Australia confirmed that he’ll be preparing for the T20 World Cup 2026 and will also be active in the Big Bash League and other international leagues.
Even George Bailey praised him saying, “Maxwell will always be remembered as one of ODI cricket’s most dynamic players. His natural skill, energy in the field, and cricketing mind have been valuable. We are lucky to still have him for T20s.”
Why fans will miss him in ODIs
Glenn Maxwell was never a typical player. He played to win, played with heart, and brought a sense of thrill every time he stepped on the field. Whether it was his reverse sweeps, quickfire innings, or brilliant catches, he made watching cricket exciting. His fielding, often underrated, brought as much energy to the game as his batting.
Now, as he steps away from ODIs, fans are left with memories of sixes flying into the crowd, run-outs out of nowhere, and of course, that magical double century in Mumbai.
Glenn Maxwell’s ODI retirement marks the end of an entertaining chapter in Australian cricket. But this is not a goodbye—it’s just a shift in focus. As he prepares for T20 cricket and continues to entertain in shorter formats, fans across the world will be cheering for him. One format ends, but the fire still burns bright.
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FAQs
When did Glenn Maxwell retire from ODI cricket?
Maxwell announced his ODI retirement on 2 June 2025.
How many ODIs did Glenn Maxwell play?
He played 149 ODIs for Australia.
What was Maxwell’s highest ODI score?
His highest score was 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup.
Will Glenn Maxwell still play T20s?
Yes, Maxwell will focus on T20 internationals and leagues, including the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Why did Glenn Maxwell retire from ODIs?
He felt he couldn’t give his best physically in ODIs and wanted to allow younger players to prepare for the 2027 World Cup.
