Glenn Maxwell Retires from ODI Cricket, Will Focus on T20 Format Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Australian cricket stalwart Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), bringing the curtain down on a spectacular 50-over career that spanned 149 matches and featured two ICC World Cup titles. The 36-year-old, however, will continue to represent Australia in T20 Internationals, with his sights set on next year’s ICC T20 World Cup.

Maxwell confirmed his decision during an in-depth interview on the Final Word podcast, citing the physical toll of ODI cricket as the key reason behind his decision, particularly after a broken leg in 2022 and ongoing soreness following games in the recent Champions Trophy.

“I felt like I was letting the team down a little bit with how my body was reacting,” Maxwell said. “It’s time to start planning for people in my position to take over and have a real crack at the 2027 World Cup.”

Known for his flamboyant strokeplay and audacious shot-making, Maxwell leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond the numbers. He retires with 3,990 ODI runs at an average of 33.81, a staggering strike rate of 126.70 — second only to Andre Russell among all players in ODI history — and four centuries to his name. His off-spin also yielded 77 wickets.

Among his greatest moments was the unforgettable double century against Afghanistan at the 2023 World Cup in Mumbai, where he scored an unbeaten 201 from No. 6 to pull off an improbable chase after Australia were reduced to 91 for 7. It remains the only double century in ODI history by a non-opener and the first-ever in a chase.

Earlier in that tournament, Maxwell blasted the fastest ODI World Cup century — a 40-ball blitz against the Netherlands — and also owns the fourth-fastest with a 51-ball hundred in the 2015 edition against Sri Lanka.

“I’m extremely fortunate that I was able to have my moment,” Maxwell said of his 201*. “It’s the peak of your powers, the best of me, and I’m proud to have done it in a World Cup.”

Another standout came in 2020, when he scored a brilliant 108 in a rescue act with Alex Carey to chase down 303 against England at Old Trafford, after Australia were in trouble at 73 for 5.

While Maxwell's batting often grabbed the headlines, his bowling and fielding contributions were just as crucial. He played a key role in Australia’s 2015 World Cup win as the main spinner and was a vital support act during the 2023 triumph. He took critical wickets and maintained an economy of under 5 runs per over in spin-friendly Indian conditions. Notably, he dismissed Rohit Sharma in the final, setting the tone for Australia's eventual victory.

A masterful fielder, Maxwell’s agility, direct hits, and game awareness in the inner ring and outfield made him one of Australia’s most valuable all-format players.

Cricket Australia Chair of Selectors George Bailey paid tribute to Maxwell, calling him “one of the most dynamic players” in ODI history.

“His natural talent, energy, and commitment to Australia have been remarkable,” Bailey said. “Fortunately, he still has much to offer in the T20 format, especially with the World Cup coming up next year.”

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg also acknowledged Maxwell’s impact, saying, “Crowds have flocked to watch Glenn bat, and kids have picked up the game because of him. He has been one of the cornerstones of Australia’s ODI success over the past decade.”

Maxwell now turns his attention to the T20 format. Currently recovering from a broken finger sustained during the IPL, he is expected to return in time for Major League Cricket in the United States later this month. He is also likely to feature in Australia’s five-match T20I series in the Caribbean starting July 20.

As Maxwell bids farewell to ODIs, he joins fellow World Cup-winner Steven Smith in stepping away from the format, marking the end of a golden era in Australian limited-overs cricket.

Glenn Maxwell Retires from ODI Cricket, Will Focus on T20 Format Ahead of 2026 World Cup

You May Interested