Yuvraj Singh praises Steve Smith's legacy after ODI retirement
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh has praised Steve Smith's immense contribution to the game after the Australian batsman announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Smith's decision to retire came a day after Australia lost to India in the ongoing Champions Trophy semifinal in Dubai.
Meanwhile, Smith played 170 ODIs in his illustrious career and scored an impressive 5,800 runs.
Nostalgic tribute
Yuvraj Singh recalls early days with Smith
Yuvraj took to social media to reminisce about Smith's early days at the defunct Pune Warriors India.
He wrote, "Steve, I still remember the young lad who walked into the Pune Warriors camp back in 2012-hungry to learn, eager to prove himself."
"Watching you grow from strength to strength, shaping yourself into one of the greats of the game, has been nothing short of incredible," Yuvraj went on to praise Smith.
Beyond statistics
Smith's legacy extends beyond numbers
Yuvraj Singh stressed that Smith's impact on cricket is more than just numbers.
He said, "Your impact on the game goes beyond numbers- your resilience, your hunger, and your ability to rise in the biggest moments have made you a true champion."
"As you step away from ODIs, know that you've left behind a legacy that will inspire generations." "Wishing you the very best for the road ahead, mate!" he further praised Smith and wished him best of luck.
Career overview
Smith's ODI career highlights and future plans
Smith's ODI career featured many standout moments, including a crucial century in the 2019 World Cup semifinal against India.
He was part of Australia's title-winning squads in 2015 and 2023.
However, he missed captaining Australia in the 2019 World Cup due to a one-year ban following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
Despite retiring from ODIs, Smith will continue to play Test and T20I formats of cricket.
ODI numbers
A look at Smith's ODI statsÂ
In 170 ODIs, Smith scored 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28. He smashed 12 tons and 35 fifties.
As per ESPNcricinfo, Smith scored 2,782 of his runs on home soil at 56.77 (100s: 9, 50s: 13).
In 70 away matches (home of opposition), he smashed 1,944 runs at 32.94.
Meanwhile, in 36 neutral venue matches, he amassed 1,074 runs at 41.30.
Words
It has been a great ride, says Smith
As mentioned, Smith, will continue to be available for Test cricket and T20Is for Australia.
"It has been a great ride and I have loved every minute of it," Smith said.
"There have been so many amazing times and wonderful memories. Winning two World Cups was a great highlight along with the many fantastic teammates who shared the journey," he added.
Twitter Post
X post confirming Smith's retirement
The great Steve Smith has called time on a superb ODI career đź‘Ź pic.twitter.com/jsKDmVSG1h
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) March 5, 2025