MELBOURNE, Australia — Glenn Maxwell, a two-time World Cup champion, has announced his retirement from one-day international (ODI) cricket. His decision comes as he aims to maintain a pivotal role in Australia’s quest for a Twenty20 world title in the coming year.
At 36, Maxwell leaves behind a notable ODI career with Australia that spanned 149 matches. His career highlights include an unbeaten double century during the 2023 World Cup, where his unorthodox batting and brilliant fielding left a lasting impression. Cricket Australia confirmed his retirement on Monday. Throughout his career, Maxwell accumulated 3,990 runs, boasting a strike-rate of 126.70, ranking second in ODI history. His innings of 201 not out from 128 balls against Afghanistan in 2023 was crucial in reviving Australia’s World Cup journey in India.
Maxwell cited the increasing physical demands of ODI cricket—which can last up to eight hours and are often played in quick succession—as a factor affecting his fielding performance. He acknowledged that extending his ODI career until the 2027 World Cup would not be feasible. Reflecting on his decision, Maxwell stated, “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.”
Maxwell appreciated the Australian selectors’ clear direction, suggesting his retirement would allow them to strategize effectively for the next World Cup. His expertise was particularly suited to the short formats of the game, notably the white-ball versions like ODI and T20, where fielding and bowling conditions favor aggressive batsmen. Because of his swift scoring ability and innovative shot-making, Maxwell earned the nickname “Big Show” from the media.
Despite having faced setbacks due to injuries, such as a concussion following a golf cart incident during the 2023 World Cup and a broken leg from a birthday party in Melbourne in 2022, Maxwell remains an iconic figure both on and off the field. George Bailey, Australia’s selection chairman, praised Maxwell’s natural talent and skill, stating, “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.” Bailey also acknowledged Maxwell’s continued value in the T20 format.
Todd Greenberg, Chief Executive of Cricket Australia, hailed Maxwell’s ODI career as one of the most exciting and influential. “Glenn’s ballistic batting has lit up the cricket world and been one of the cornerstones of Australia’s continued success in the 50-over game, including his heroic role in the 2023 World Cup triumph,” Greenberg remarked. He added that Maxwell’s performances have drawn crowds to stadiums just to watch his batting and inspired many young fans to take up the sport.