Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell has officially retired from One-Day International (ODI) cricket, ending a spectacular career that included two ODI World Cup wins and one of the greatest innings in the history of the format. His decision clears the way for a focused push toward the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Maxwell retires with iconic innings and elite strike rate
Maxwell played 149 ODIs for Australia, amassing four centuries and 23 fifties while taking 77 wickets with his off-spin. His career strike rate of 126 is the second highest in ODI history, behind only Andre Russell of the West Indies.
Among his many memorable moments, Maxwell’s 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 Cricket World Cup stands as one of the format’s most astonishing performances. Coming in at 7-91, Maxwell defied cramps and intense Mumbai heat to guide Australia to an improbable chase, sharing a 202-run stand with Pat Cummins.
Why Maxwell is stepping away from ODIs now
With the 2027 ODI World Cup still two years away, Maxwell cited the physical toll of the 50-over game and his desire to help selectors build for the future as key reasons for his retirement. He emphasized the importance of giving younger players time to cement their positions.
“I didn’t want to just hold on for a couple of series and almost play for selfish reasons,” Maxwell said on the Final Word Podcast. “They are moving in such a clear direction, so this gives them the best look at what the line-up is.”
He also referenced the lingering effects of a serious leg injury and how it affected his performance in the field, particularly during the recent Champion’s Trophy.
Maxwell still central to Australia’s T20 ambitions
Despite leaving ODIs behind, Maxwell remains committed to Australia’s T20 international setup. He is expected to play a key role in the lead-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, as well as continuing with his Big Bash League and global franchise cricket appearances.
Tributes from cricket’s top brass
Todd Greenberg, CEO of Cricket Australia, praised Maxwell’s impact on the game:
“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, including his heroic role in the 2023 World Cup triumph.”
George Bailey, Chair of Selectors, added:
“He will be remembered as one of the one-day game’s most dynamic players. Fortunately, he still has much to offer Australia in the T20 format.”
Maxwell’s ODI retirement marks the end of an era—but also a fresh beginning for Australia’s white-ball ambitions.
