'Big Show' Maxwell announces international retirement

Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell has called time on his international career, ending a storied run that saw him score runs with flair and contribute across multiple formats. Maxwell's decision, made public on Tuesday during a podcast interview, encompasses his retirement from both limited-overs and first-class cricket for Victoria.

During his illustrious career, Maxwell represented Australia in 149 One Day Internationals (ODIs), 130 T20 Internationals (T20Is), and seven Test matches. He was a key player in Australia's victories in the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups, as well as the T20 World Cup triumph in 2021. Maxwell expressed his intention to refocus on fitness, utilizing this period to fine-tune his physical condition ahead of upcoming tournaments.

The 38-year-old confirmed that his final international appearance for Australia came against Oman in the T20 World Cup held in Sri Lanka in February. Maxwell's batting prowess was marked by a staggering 3,990 runs in ODIs and 2,897 runs in T20Is. In T20 cricket, he, alongside India's Rohit Sharma, is among the elite with five international centuries to his name.

Maxwell had previously announced his retirement from ODIs last year, but hoped to play a farewell match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). However, Australia's squad announcement for the upcoming series against England has shifted his plans. While Maxwell expressed understanding for the team's strategic decision to favor younger players in their short-format lineups, he lamented the missed opportunity for a farewell match at his beloved home ground.