Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has announced his immediate retirement from ODI cricket, allowing him to focus solely on T20I cricket. His decision means Australia will be without his services for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
Stoinis, 35, leaves the ODI format after representing Australia in 71 matches, including two ICC Men’s Cricket World Cups in 2019 and 2023. His last appearance came against Pakistan in Perth in November 2023. Reflecting on his career, Stoinis expressed gratitude for his time in the Australian squad.
“Playing ODI cricket for Australia has been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every moment in the green and gold,” Stoinis said. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right time for me to step away from ODIs and fully focus on the next chapter of my career. I’ll be cheering the boys on in Pakistan.”
Australia is already facing an injury crisis ahead of the Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19 in Pakistan and the UAE. All-rounder Mitch Marsh has been ruled out, while key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood remain doubtful. Stoinis’ departure means Australia may need up to four new players for their 15-member squad.
Potential replacements include Spencer Johnson, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Sean Abbott, while Australian cricket great Ricky Ponting has suggested that uncapped all-rounder Mitch Owen could be a strong candidate due to his similarities with Stoinis.
Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald praised Stoinis for his contributions to the team. “Stoin has been a pivotal part of our ODI setup for the past decade. He is not only an invaluable player but also a fantastic leader and a great person. He should be congratulated on his ODI career and all his achievements,” McDonald said.
Australia’s preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy includes Pat Cummins (captain), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Adam Zampa, though final selections are yet to be confirmed.
