Glenn Maxwell Bids Farewell to ODI Cricket: A Dazzling One-Day Career Ends
Australian cricket fans and the global cricketing community are saying goodbye to one of the most thrilling entertainers in One Day Internationals — Glenn Maxwell. The 35-year-old all-rounder has officially announced his retirement from ODI cricket, drawing the curtain on a career filled with explosive knocks, record-breaking innings, and match-winning performances.
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Glenn Maxwell played 128 ODIs for Australia, scoring over 4,100 runs at a strike rate of over 124, one of the highest in the format’s history. He wasn’t just a batter — he was a game-changer. His ability to shift momentum in just a few overs made him one of the most feared middle-order batters in world cricket.
Maxwell also contributed with the ball, taking 60+ wickets with his clever off-spin, and was a livewire in the field with acrobatic saves and sharp catches.
Top 3 ODI Innings of Glenn Maxwell’s Career
1. 201 vs Afghanistan – 2023 Cricket World Cup
Arguably the greatest ODI innings of all time, Maxwell’s unbeaten 201 off 128 balls rescued Australia from a hopeless situation at 91/7 while chasing 292 against Afghanistan. Battling full-body cramps and barely able to run, Maxwell relied solely on his timing and clean hitting.
He struck 21 fours and 10 sixes, many of them on one leg. It was the first-ever double century in a run chase and made him only the third Australian to score an ODI double ton. This innings wasn’t just a match-winner — it was historic.
2. 102 off 53 Balls – vs Sri Lanka, 2015 World Cup
In the 2015 ICC World Cup, Maxwell smashed 102 off just 53 balls, scoring the fastest century by an Australian in World Cup history at that time. His brutal assault included 10 fours and 4 sixes, and he brought up his hundred in just 51 deliveries.
This innings was a key moment in Australia’s title-winning campaign, showcasing Maxwell’s ability to dominate bowling attacks on the biggest stage.
3. 77 off 59 Balls – vs India, 2020*
In a high-pressure match against India, Maxwell walked in with Australia needing quick runs. His unbeaten 77 off just 59 balls helped Australia chase down a tough total, and his calculated aggression proved once again why he was so valuable in the ODI format.
The knock was filled with innovative strokes — switch hits, reverse sweeps, and scoops — reminding fans of the unpredictable brilliance that defined his career.
A Key Role in World Cups
Maxwell was part of two World Cup-winning squads — in 2015 and 2023. In 2015, his middle-order blitzes provided crucial acceleration, and in 2023, his double hundred became the tournament’s most iconic moment.
He ended his World Cup journey with several match-winning performances, proving his worth in high-stakes situations.
A Fan Favorite for a Reason
Maxwell didn’t just score runs — he scored them in style. His innovative shot-making, ability to hit from ball one, and confidence under pressure made him a fan favorite worldwide.
He often played the role of the finisher or rescuer, adapting his approach to the needs of the game. Whether Australia needed 12 an over or were trying to rebuild from a collapse, Maxwell could do both.
Why Now?
In his retirement statement, Maxwell mentioned that stepping away from ODIs would allow him to manage his workload better and focus on T20 cricket and franchise leagues. Given the physical demands and his past injuries, it’s a decision many expected — but it still hits hard for fans who witnessed his ODI magic.
Legacy in ODI Cricket
Maxwell leaves behind a legacy of:
- One of the highest ODI strike rates in history.
- A record-breaking double century under unimaginable pressure.
- Over 4,100 runs and 60 wickets in ODIs.
- A style of play that inspired modern aggression in the middle order.
Final Thoughts
Glenn Maxwell’s retirement from ODI cricket marks the end of an exhilarating chapter in Australia’s cricketing history. While he may still dazzle us in T20s, the one-day game will sorely miss his flair, courage, and unpredictability.
His career is a reminder that cricket isn’t just about stats — it’s about moments. And Maxwell gave us plenty of them.
Thank you, Glenn Maxwell, for redefining the ODI game.