Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell on Monday retired from ODIs to focus on next year’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, saying that he did not want to “play for selfish reasons” given how his body has been struggling to hold up.”I felt like I was letting the team down a little bit with how body was reacting to the conditions. I had a good chat with (Chair of Selectors) George Bailey and I asked him what his thoughts were going forward,” he told the ‘Final Word Podcast’.
The 36-year-old explosive batter and often underestimated off-spin bowler played 149 ODI matches for Australia including what is regarded by many the greatest one-day innings of all-time. Having just completed his tenure with the Punjab Kings as they progress towards the IPL 2025 final.
The decision follows his sensational knock against Afghanistan during the 2023 World Cup, where he rescued Australia from a dire 7/91 to victory with a blistering 201 off 128 balls, despite battling cramps and intense heat. Australia later went on to win the tournament, defeating India in the final at Ahmedabad.
Maxwell’s long-standing legacy
Maxwell revealed that following the World Cup, he began to consider his long-term future and had conversations with the selectors about stepping aside to make room for emerging talent ahead of the 2027 World Cup. His recent stint in the IPL with Punjab Kings was cut short due to a broken finger, further prompting reflection on his ODI career.
Second only to Andre Russell, along with four centuries, 23 half-centuries, and 77 wickets Maxwell’s explosive batting style is a fan favourite. Cricket Australia confirmed that he will now focus on preparing for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, the Big Bash League, and other T20 commitments around the world.
His ODI retirement follows that of Marcus Stoinis, marking a transition period for Australia’s white-ball squad. Maxwell’s career was defined by thrilling innings, resilience after setbacks, and a strong impact on Australia’s global cricket success. He was widely celebrated for his ability to change games single-handedly and has inspired a generation of young cricketers with his unorthodox and aggressive playing style.
Cricket Australia and key figures in the sport, including chief selector George Bailey and CA CEO Todd Greenberg, acknowledged Maxwell’s immense contribution, calling him one of the most dynamic and influential ODI players of his era.
