Don't want to play for selfish reasons: Glenn Maxwell retires from ODIs

Melbourne: Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his immediate retirement from the ODI format to prioritise next year’s T20 World Cup and other global T20 commitments.

Since making his ODI debut in August 2012, Maxwell has played 149 matches, amassing 3,990 runs and taking 77 wickets.

A vital contributor to Australia’s World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023, Maxwell made his final ODI appearance earlier this year against India during the ICC Champions Trophy.

His decision to step away from ODIs stems from his desire to focus on preparing for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, along with the Big Bash League and other international T20 competitions. He acknowledged that maintaining peak performance in ODIs was increasingly challenging.

"I felt like I was letting the team down a little bit with how the 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,” Maxwell told the Final Word Podcast.

"I always said I wasn't going to hand my position over if I felt like I was still good enough to play. I didn't want to just hold on for a couple of series and almost play for selfish reasons.

"They are moving in such a clear direction, so this gives them the best look at what the line-up is leading into that next World Cup. I know how important that planning is," he added.

Maxwell’s defining moment in ODI cricket came during the 2023 World Cup at Wankhede Stadium, where he orchestrated a stunning comeback for Australia. Battling severe cramps, he delivered an extraordinary unbeaten 201 off 128 balls, rescuing his team from a precarious 91/7 while chasing 293 against Afghanistan.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI innings in history, Maxwell’s heroics secured a memorable victory and cemented his legacy in the format.

"I'm extremely fortunate that I was able to have my moment," Maxwell said of his greatest innings. "Everything that you've worked hard for, the peak of your powers, being able to put it in front of the world to see, and it's almost like saying, This is the best of me; you can either take it or leave it, but this is all I've got."

Australia chief selector George Bailey said, “Glenn will be known as one of the one-day game’s most dynamic players, who had key roles in two ODI World Cup victories.

“His level of natural talent and skill is remarkable. His energy in the field, under-rated ability with the ball and longevity has been superb. What else stands out is his passion for and commitment to playing for Australia.

“Fortunately, he still has much to offer Australia in the T20 format. All things going well he will be pivotal in the next 12 months as we build toward the World Cup early next year.”

Maxwell last played for the Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 before a broken finger forced him out of the tournament.

(inputs from IANS)