In a major development, Glenn Maxwell retires from ODI cricket after an iconic career spanning 149 matches. While stepping away from the 50-over format, the Australian star confirmed his availability for the T20 World Cup in 2026. His decision follows Australia’s semi-final exit from the Champions Trophy earlier this year.
Physical Toll Ends Maxwell’s ODI Journey
The explosive all-rounder cited physical exhaustion as the main reason for his ODI retirement. Since suffering a broken leg in 2022, Maxwell struggled to recover fully between matches. According to him, pushing through games was affecting team performance. Therefore, he decided it was time for a younger player to take his place ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
An Unmatched Impact in ODI Cricket
Although Glenn Maxwell’s ODI stats read 3990 runs at an average of 33.81 and 77 wickets, they hardly reflect his influence. With a strike rate of 126.70, only Andre Russell ranks higher in ODI history. Among players with over 2000 runs, no one has scored faster.
Maxwell’s 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup stands as the highest score by a non-opener in an ODI chase. That knock turned the tide when Australia were 91 for 7 while chasing 292. Moreover, he smashed the fastest World Cup century in just 40 balls against the Netherlands during the same tournament.
End of an era in ODI cricket! 🏏
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) June 2, 2025
Glenn Maxwell calls time on his 50-over career after 149 games, 3,990 runs, 77 wickets & countless memories! 💛
Thank you for the madness, magic & mayhem, Maxi! 🙌#GlennMaxwell #ODIRetirement #TheBigShow #AustralianCricket #CricketLegend pic.twitter.com/dIjhqP9pBq
Crucial Contributions Beyond the Bat
Notably, his role as a part-time spinner and an elite fielder was invaluable. During the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, he played critical roles with the ball. He also bowled a memorable double-wicket maiden in a dramatic win over Pakistan in 2014.
A Lasting Legacy in Australian Cricket
Cricket Australia has praised Maxwell’s immense contribution to the ODI format. With two World Cup titles, record-breaking innings, and unmatched flair, Glenn Maxwell’s ODI retirement marks the end of an era. Fortunately, fans can still watch his magic unfold in T20 cricket, including the upcoming series in the Caribbean and the Major League Cricket in the USA.
