Virat Kohli and Steve Smith: Steve Smith stunned the cricket world by declaring his retirement from ODI cricket a day after Australia’s Champions Trophy semifinal defeat against India. His last game in the format was one where he scored a gritty 76 off 96 balls, but his efforts went in vain as India won a four-wicket victory to advance to their third successive Champions Trophy final.
Did Virat Kohli Know Beforehand?
A video doing the rounds on social media has left fans believing that Virat Kohli was aware of Smith’s retirement plan prior to the formal announcement. The clip shows a quick but emotional interaction between the two cricket legends following the game in Dubai. As they hugged, Kohli seemed to inquire, “Last?”, to which Smith allegedly replied, “Yes.” The moment soon went viral, with fans assuming Kohli had received an early clue about Smith’s decision.
A Great ODI Career Comes to an End
Smith walks out of ODI cricket as Australia’s sixth-highest run-scorer, having made 5,800 runs from 170 games at a staggering average of 43.28. His career boasts of 12 centuries and 35 half-centuries, in addition to crucial performances in Australia’s 2015 and 2023 World Cup victories.
Though he is pulling out of ODIs, Smith is not forsaking Test cricket and T20s. His first major task to return to the game will be Australia’s World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s in June. Smith has also talked about a future comeback for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, leaving himself with an open option on T20 cricket.
An Emotional Goodbye, But More to Come
Smith conceded that it was the time to make way for younger cricketers and enable Australia to plan ahead for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Still, he confirmed that he still has a lot to contribute in Test cricket. Cricket fans will now eagerly wait to watch him feature in futuristic Test series against West Indies and England as he continues to etch his legacy in the game’s longest form.
As cricket bids farewell to one of its most technically skilled ODI batsmen, Smith leaves his legacy unscathed. His grit, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure have defined his career, and fans will always remember him as one of Australia’s best.
Read more Steve Smith vs. Virat Kohli
