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Glenn Maxwell Announces Retirement from ODI Cricket After Stellar Career

Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from ODI cricket, concluding a remarkable career that includes two World Cup titles and iconic performances. At 36, he cited physical challenges as the reason for his decision. Despite stepping back from ODIs, Maxwell aims to focus on T20 internationals, with aspirations for the 2026 T20 World Cup. His legacy includes nearly 4,000 runs and a historic double century in a run chase. As he recovers from an injury, Maxwell is expected to return for Major League Cricket and Australia's T20I tour of the West Indies. Read on to explore his career highlights and future plans.
 

Maxwell's ODI Journey Comes to an End

Glenn Maxwell has officially announced his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket, concluding a remarkable career that spanned 149 matches and included two World Cup victories along with several memorable innings.


The 36-year-old shared his decision during an episode of the Final Word podcast, as reported by a sports news outlet, stating that his body could no longer cope with the rigors of the 50-over format.


"I felt like I was letting the team down a little bit with how my body was reacting to the conditions," Maxwell expressed. He further mentioned discussions with Australia’s chair of selectors, George Bailey, about the upcoming 2027 World Cup, saying, 'I don’t think I am going to make that.'


Maxwell retires with an impressive tally of 3,990 runs in ODIs at a strike rate of 126.70, the second-highest for players with over 2,000 runs, alongside 77 wickets. Although he hasn't participated in Test cricket for Australia since 2017, he has not officially retired from the format. Nonetheless, he aims to concentrate on T20 internationals, setting his sights on the 2026 T20 World Cup.


"I'm extremely fortunate that I was able to have my moment," Maxwell reflected, recalling his historic 201* against Afghanistan during the 2023 World Cup, which remains the only double century achieved in a run chase in ODI history.


Future Plans in T20 Cricket

Maxwell's retirement follows his significant contribution to Australia's victory in the 2023 World Cup held in India, as well as his role in their 2015 championship win. Despite having only four centuries in ODIs, he leaves a legacy marked by match-winning performances, exceptional fielding, and crucial bowling.


Currently, Maxwell is recovering from a broken finger sustained during IPL 2025 but is anticipated to return in time for Major League Cricket in the United States later this month. He is also expected to participate in Australia's T20I tour of the West Indies, commencing on July 20.


“Glenn’s explosive batting has illuminated the cricketing world. Australian cricket owes him a debt of gratitude for his ODI achievements,” stated Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.