Glenn Maxwell Calls Time on ODI Career, Eyes 2026 T20 World Cup

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell formally declared his retirement from 50-over international cricket on Monday, effective immediately.

The 36-year-old will remain available for T20Is and anticipates competing through the 2026 T20 World Cup.

This decision follows Australia’s exit from the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final earlier this year and shortly after Steven Smith, also a two-time ODI World Cup victor, stepped away from the format.

While Maxwell has not officially retired from Test cricket, it is unlikely he will be selected for red-ball matches again.

The announcement occurred during an extensive interview on the Final Word Podcast. Maxwell pointed to the physical demands of ODI cricket, especially after his significant leg injury in 2022, as a primary reason for his choice.

“I felt I was underperforming for the team due to my body’s reaction to conditions,” Maxwell stated. “I spoke with George Bailey, the chair of selectors, to get his perspective.”

“We discussed the 2027 World Cup, and I expressed my doubt about participating. It’s time to plan for others to take my position and excel. Hopefully, they’ll have sufficient time to secure that role.”

“I didn’t want to relinquish my spot if I believed I could still contribute. I didn’t want to prolong my career selfishly.”

“They’re progressing decisively, providing the best preview of the lineup for the upcoming World Cup. This planning is vital, in my opinion.”

Maxwell emphasized he didn’t want to hold on for personal gain and thinks his departure will provide Australia with clarity for future planning.

Despite modest statistics—3,990 runs at 33.81 and 77 wickets at 47.32 in 149 ODIs—Maxwell’s influence was considerable. His strike-rate of 126.70 is only surpassed by Andre Russell and remains unmatched among players with over 2,000 runs.

His ODI journey featured four memorable centuries, including his unbeaten 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup in Mumbai.

That innings, chasing 292 after Australia faltered to 91 for 7, marked the first double-century by an Australian in ODIs, the first in a chase, and the first by a non-opener.

“I’m incredibly lucky to have had that moment,” Maxwell reflected on his best innings. “It’s the culmination of hard work, showcasing the best of my abilities to the world. It’s like saying, ‘This is my best; take it or leave it.'”

Maxwell also achieved the fastest century in ODI World Cup history—in 40 balls against the Netherlands in Delhi—and holds the fourth-fastest ton, scored in 51 balls against Sri Lanka during the 2015 tournament in Sydney.

Another highlight was in 2020 when he and Alex Carey achieved a chase of 303 against England at Old Trafford after Australia was at 73 for 5. Maxwell’s 108 off 90 balls helped secure the series victory.

“That was likely one of my favorite memories,” Maxwell recalled. “Being with Alex Carey, who initially struggled, was great fun once he found his form. Contributing to his first one-day hundred and playing a key role in winning that series, especially after a long break from cricket and enduring bio-secure bubbles and quarantine, made it worthwhile.”

Maxwell’s bowling, though often unnoticed, was crucial in major tournaments. He was a key spinner in the 2015 World Cup and a second spinner in the 2023 edition in India, maintaining an economy rate of 4.81.

He also delivered a memorable final over against Pakistan in 2014, securing a double-wicket maiden to defend two runs.

Known for his exceptional fielding, Maxwell consistently contributed, earning a reputation as one of Australia’s top fielders.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg acknowledged Maxwell’s contribution to the game.

“Congratulations to Glenn on an influential one day international career,” Greenberg stated. “Glenn’s batting has energized the cricket world and helped Australia succeed in the 50 over game, including the 2023 World Cup.”

“Like other greats, fans have come to watch Glenn bat, inspiring children to take up the sport after seeing him dominate opposition attacks.”

“Australian cricket thanks Glenn for his ODI performances and looks forward to his focus on the ICC T20 World Cup next year.”

Maxwell is recovering from a fractured finger sustained during the IPL but should return in less than two weeks for Major League Cricket in the United States.

He is likely to be named in Australia’s squad for the five-match T20I series in the Caribbean, starting July 20.