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Glenn Maxwell Retires from ODI Cricket: A Tribute to Australia’s Dynamic All-Rounder

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Australian cricket fans were met with a mix of surprise and nostalgia as Glenn Maxwell, one of the most explosive all-rounders in modern cricket, announced his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) on May 29, 2025. The decision marks the end of a remarkable 13-year ODI career, during which Maxwell became a key figure in Australia’s white-ball dominance, including their 2015 and 2023 World Cup triumphs.

Maxwell, 36, will now shift his focus entirely to T20 cricket, with an eye on the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. His retirement comes after 149 ODIs, where he amassed 3,990 runs and took 77 wickets, leaving behind a legacy of breathtaking performances and unforgettable moments.

Maxwell’s ODI Career in Numbers

Batting Record

  • Matches: 149
  • Runs: 3,990
  • Average: 33.81
  • Strike Rate: 126.70 (one of the highest in ODI history)
  • Highest Score: 201* (vs Afghanistan, 2023 World Cup)
  • Centuries: 4
  • Fifties: 23

Bowling & Fielding Contributions

  • Wickets: 77
  • Best Bowling: 4/40
  • Four-Wicket Hauls: 4
  • Catches: 91

Maxwell’s *201* against Afghanistan* in the 2023 World Cup is widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI innings ever played. Chasing 292, Australia were 91/7 before Maxwell single-handedly pulled off an impossible victory, battling severe cramps to smash an unbeaten double-century.

Why Did Maxwell Retire?

Maxwell revealed that his decision was influenced by:

  1. Physical Challenges – Frequent injuries, including a recent leg issue that ruled him out of the 2025 IPL.
  2. Future Planning – Wanting to give younger players time to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
  3. T20 Focus – Prioritizing the 2026 T20 World Cup and franchise leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL).

In an emotional statement, Maxwell said:

“I felt like I was letting the team down a little bit with how my body was reacting to the conditions. I had a good chat with George Bailey, and we talked about the 2027 World Cup. I told him, ‘I don’t think I’m going to make that.’ It’s time to let someone else take over.”


Reactions from the Cricket World

George Bailey (Chair of Selectors & Former Captain)

*”Glenn will be known as one of the one-day game’s most dynamic players. His natural talent, energy in the field, and underrated bowling made him a match-winner. Fortunately, he still has much to offer in T20s, and we hope to see him in the 2026 World Cup.”*

Pat Cummins (Australia’s ODI Captain)

*”Maxi has been a game-changer for us. That 201* was insane—I’ve never seen anything like it. His fearlessness inspired the whole team.”*

Fans & Former Players

  • Shane Watson: “One of the most entertaining cricketers ever. The game will miss his ODI brilliance.”
  • AB de Villiers: “That Afghanistan innings was the best I’ve ever seen. A true legend.”

What’s Next for Maxwell?

  • T20 Internationals: Will continue playing for Australia, targeting the 2026 T20 World Cup.
  • Franchise Cricket: Remains a hot property in leagues like the IPL, BBL, and The Hundred.
  • Commentary & Coaching? Given his sharp cricket brain, many expect him to transition into media or mentoring roles post-retirement.

Final Verdict: A Career That Redefined Modern ODI Cricket

Glenn Maxwell’s retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. His unorthodox strokeplay, electric fielding, and handy off-spin made him a once-in-a-generation player. While ODIs will miss his flair, fans can still enjoy his fireworks in T20s.

Do you think Maxwell’s 201 was the greatest ODI innings ever? Share your thoughts!

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