Australia’s explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has officially retired from One Day Internationals (ODIs), bringing an end to a remarkable 13-year journey in the 50-over format. While stepping away from ODIs, Maxwell has confirmed he remains committed to Australia’s T20 campaigns, including the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup.
Why Did Glenn Maxwell Retire from ODIs?
Maxwell cited the physical toll of 50-over cricket and concerns over his long-term fitness following a serious leg injury in 2022 as the primary reasons behind his decision. He admitted he wasn’t confident in his ability to continue performing at the highest level in ODIs, especially in the field.
After conversations with Australia’s Chief Selector George Bailey, it became evident that he was not in the picture for the 2027 ODI World Cup, prompting him to step aside and create space for younger talent.
A Look Back at Maxwell’s ODI Career
Glenn Maxwell made his ODI debut in 2012 and quickly built a reputation for being one of the most unorthodox and dangerous middle-order batters in world cricket. He was a two-time World Cup winner (2015 & 2023) and often delivered match-turning performances.
His double century (201 vs Afghanistan)* in the 2023 World Cup — achieved while cramping and with Australia reeling at 91/7 — is regarded as one of the greatest ODI innings of all time.
Glenn Maxwell ODI Career Stats
Here’s a breakdown of his ODI statistics:
| Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| ODI Matches | 149 |
| Runs Scored | 3,990 |
| Batting Average | 33.81 |
| Strike Rate | 126.7 |
| Centuries | 4 |
| Half-Centuries | 23 |
| Highest Score | 201* |
| Wickets Taken | 77 |
| World Cup Titles | 2 (2015, 2023) |
Maxwell’s strike rate of 126.7 ranks second in ODI history for players with 1,000+ runs — only behind West Indies’ Andre Russell.
The End of an Era, But Not the End of Maxwell
Though he’s walked away from ODIs, Maxwell is not retiring from international cricket altogether. He remains available for T20 Internationals and will be a vital cog in Australia’s strategy for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cupin India and Sri Lanka.
Additionally, he will continue playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) and other T20 tournaments across the globe.
Tributes and Legacy
Glenn Maxwell received glowing tributes from across the cricketing world. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg praised him as one of the most entertaining and effective ODI players Australia has ever produced:
“Glenn’s ballistic batting has lit up the cricket world… His heroic role in the 2023 World Cup triumph will be remembered forever.”
Maxwell leaves behind a legacy of fearless cricket, dazzling shot-making, and unmatched ability to change the course of a game in just a few overs.
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