Glenn MaxwellAustralia Cricket Newsaustralian cricket playersCricket RetirementInternational MatchesODIODI CricketPlayer RetirementRetirement NewsT20T20 Cricket NewsWorld Cup History
Glenn Maxwell Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket to Focus on T20 Format
Australian Allrounder Concludes Illustrious ODI Career Spanning 13 Years
In a significant development for Australian cricket, star allrounder Glenn Maxwell has officially announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), bringing an end to a celebrated international career in the 50-over format. Maxwell, known for his explosive batting and dynamic presence on the field, has made this decision to fully commit to T20 cricket as preparations intensify for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, to be held in India and Sri Lanka.
Glenn Maxwell’s ODI Journey: A Blend of Power, Innovation, and Flair
A Prolific Career in Numbers
Maxwell’s ODI career, which began in 2012, spans 149 matches in which he amassed 3,990 runs at an average of 33.81 and an astonishing strike rate of 126.70 — one of the highest in ODI history for a middle-order batter. His tally includes four centuries and 23 fifties, with the standout being a record-breaking unbeaten 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup — widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI innings ever played.
On the bowling front, Maxwell was an effective offspinner, claiming 77 wickets. He picked up four four-wicket hauls and often chipped in with crucial breakthroughs during the middle overs. His fielding prowess also stood out, with 91 catches to his name, making him a complete asset in limited-overs cricket.
World Cup Glory and Defining Contributions
Maxwell was an integral part of Australia’s victorious squads in the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups. His fearless approach in the middle order and his ability to turn games with both bat and ball made him a key player in Australia’s white-ball dominance during the last decade.
During the 2023 edition, his double century against Afghanistan rescued Australia from the brink of defeat, reinforcing his status as a match-winner and cementing his legacy in ODI history.
Read our Australia’s Cricket News here.
Focus Shifts to T20 Cricket and Global Leagues
Preparing for the 2026 T20 World Cup
Cricket Australia, in a formal announcement, confirmed that Maxwell made the decision keeping the 2026 T20 World Cup in mind. The tournament, scheduled for early next year, will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Maxwell, who continues to be a mainstay in Australia’s T20 setup, intends to focus solely on the shortest format at both domestic and international levels.
“I didn’t want to just hold on for a couple of series and play for selfish reasons,” Maxwell said in the ‘Final Word Podcast’. “It’s time for others to step up and own that position in ODIs.”
Injuries and Strategic Transition
Maxwell, who missed the ongoing IPL season due to a leg injury, admitted that the physical toll was also a key factor in his decision. He shared that the demanding conditions and his body’s response played a crucial role in the timing of his announcement.
He consulted with Australia’s Chair of Selectors, George Bailey, before finalizing his decision. “We talked about the 2027 World Cup and I said, ‘I don’t think I’m going to make that’,” he revealed.
Tributes and Legacy
George Bailey, himself a former teammate of Maxwell, praised the allrounder’s contribution:
“Glenn will go down as one of the most dynamic one-day players. His energy, athleticism, and all-round capabilities were crucial to Australia’s success.”
Maxwell’s influence extends beyond the statistics. His innovative strokeplay, including trademark reverse sweeps and switch hits, changed how modern ODIs are played. His leadership, charisma, and showmanship endeared him to fans globally.
Visit Cricket Australia’s official statement on Maxwell’s retirement.
