In a significant move for Australian cricket, star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs) to concentrate fully on T20 internationals, with a clear focus on the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The 36-year-old Maxwell, widely regarded as one of the most explosive and innovative white-ball cricketers of his generation, made the announcement following Australia’s semi-final exit in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Australia, despite a strong showing in the group stage, fell short of the final, which turned out to be Maxwell’s final appearance in the 50-over format.
A Storied ODI Career Comes to a Close
Maxwell retires with an impressive ODI record. In 149 matches, he accumulated 3,990 runs at an average of 33.81, including four centuries and 23 half-centuries. Known for his ability to change the course of a game in just a few overs, Maxwell also played a vital role as a part-time off-spinner, claiming 77 wickets, including four four-wicket hauls, underscoring his all-round value to the team.
More than just numbers, Maxwell’s presence brought a unique energy and unpredictability to Australia’s middle order. He was equally capable of steadying a shaky innings or launching a ferocious counterattack, often doing both in a single match.
Focus Shifts to T20 and Beyond
Maxwell pointed to the physical strain of ODI cricket and the lasting impact of a significant leg injury as key factors behind his decision. In an interview on the Final Word Podcast, he shared details of an important conversation with Cricket Australia’s Chairman of Selectors, George Bailey.
Maxwell said, “I felt like I was holding the team back a bit because my body wasn’t coping well with the conditions. I had a good talk with George Bailey and asked for his thoughts about the future. We discussed the 2027 World Cup, and I told him, ‘I don’t think I’ll make it that far. It’s time to start preparing others in my role to take over and make it their own.’”
He emphasized that he did not want to continue in the format merely for personal milestones or sentimental reasons, but rather to make room for emerging talent to build toward the 2027 World Cup.
Maxwell added, “I didn’t want to hang on for a few more series just for selfish reasons. The team is moving in a clear direction, and this lets them see the best possible line-up ahead of the next World Cup. I understand how crucial that planning is.”
With this decision, Maxwell now aims to focus on T20 Internationals, the Big Bash League (BBL), and other global T20 leagues, where he continues to be a fan favorite and a match-winner.
Legacy of a Maverick
Maxwell’s ODI career is filled with moments of brilliance, but none more memorable than his legendary double century against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup. In what is widely hailed as one of the greatest innings in World Cup history, Maxwell scored a jaw-dropping 201 not out off 128 balls at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, rescuing Australia from a dire situation at 91/7 and successfully chasing down 292, almost single-handedly. It was also the first-ever double century in ODIs while batting second.
Just days before that feat, he smashed the fastest hundred in World Cup history, reaching the milestone in just 40 balls against the Netherlands in Delhi, reaffirming his status as a white-ball phenomenon.
His overall ODI strike rate of 126 is the second-best in history, behind only West Indies’ hard-hitter Andre Russell. Maxwell’s blend of aggressive batting, creative shot-making, and useful off-spin made him a key player for Australia in the ODI format.
A Two-Time World Champion
Maxwell played a key role in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023, offering crucial contributions with both bat and ball. His efforts helped establish Australia’s dominance in the modern white-ball era, and his unique style inspired a new generation of cricketers to think outside the box.
Looking Ahead
As Glenn Maxwell turns his focus to the shortest format of the game, cricket fans around the world will continue to witness his flair, power, and unorthodox genius on the T20 stage. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon and the BBL and various other global leagues calling, Maxwell’s journey is far from over.
While ODI cricket will miss the Maxwell magic, the decision marks a thoughtful and selfless transition, paving the way for the next generation and ensuring that Australia remains strong and competitive in the years to come.
