Virat Kohli's On-Field Gesture For 'Retiring' Steve Smith Sets Internet On Fire

Photo : Twitter

Australian cricketer Steve Smith has decided to stop playing One Day International (ODI) matches. He made this decision after Australia lost to India in the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal in Dubai on Tuesday. Smith played very well in the match and scored a strong half-century. But India won because of a great performance by Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya.

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Smith told the world about his decision. But some people on social media think he told Virat Kohli on the field after the match. A video going viral shows Smith and Kohli talking for a short time before hugging. Some fans believe Kohli asked Smith if it was his last ODI match, and Smith said yes.

Smith, who is 35 years old, was the captain for this match because regular captain Pat Cummins was injured. After the match, Smith told his teammates in the dressing room that he will no longer play ODI cricket. But he will continue playing Test matches and T20 cricket for Australia.

Talking about his decision, Smith said he feels this is the right time to step away. He wants Australia to prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup with new players. He said he loved every moment of his ODI career and made many happy memories. The biggest moments for him were winning the World Cups in 2015 and 2023.

Smith has been an important player for Australia in ODIs. He was named Australia’s best ODI player in 2015 and 2021. In 2015, he was also included in the ICC’s best ODI team. He became Australia’s ODI captain in 2015 and led the team again in his last match. He believes young players should now get a chance to prepare for the future.

Even though he will not play ODIs, Smith is still focused on Test cricket. He is excited about the World Test Championship Final in June. He feels he can still give a lot to the game and wants to keep playing at the top level.

Smith played 170 ODIs for Australia and was one of the team’s most important players. His ODI journey has ended, but he will continue playing cricket and making his mark in Tests and T20s.