Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has decided to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs), Cricket Australia confirmed on February 6. Stoinis, who made his ODI debut in 2015, played 71 matches and contributed significantly as a batting all-rounder. He now plans to focus entirely on T20 cricket.
Stoinis Reflects on His ODI Journey
Stoinis acknowledged the significance of his time in ODIs and expressed gratitude for representing Australia at the highest level. He emphasized the deep connection he shares with Australian cricket and the pride he felt in wearing the national colors.
“Playing ODI cricket for Australia has been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve had in the green and gold. Representing my country at the highest level is something I’ll always cherish,” Stoinis said.
He also revealed that the decision to step away from the 50-over format was not an easy one but felt that this was the right moment to make the transition. He appreciated the support from head coach Andrew McDonald, whom he has shared a strong working relationship with.
“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’ve got a fantastic relationship with Ron (Andrew McDonald) and I’ve hugely appreciated his support,” Stoinis added.
A Career Marked by Memorable Performances
Stoinis leaves behind a strong legacy in ODI cricket. His most remarkable innings came in only his second ODI match, where he smashed an unbeaten 146 against New Zealand in Auckland in 2017. That knock, where he single-handedly fought to keep Australia in the contest, remains one of the most impressive performances in modern ODI cricket.
Over the course of his career, Stoinis accumulated 1,495 runs and took 48 wickets. His all-round capabilities provided Australia with a valuable middle-order presence and an extra bowling option. He also played a key role in Australia’s 2023 World Cup-winning campaign, further cementing his place as an important figure in the team’s ODI history.
During the 2018-19 season, he earned recognition as Australia’s ODI Cricketer of the Year, highlighting his impact in the format.
Impact on the Australian Team and Reactions from Teammates
Stoinis played a crucial role in the Australian ODI setup for nearly a decade. His contributions extended beyond his performances, as he became a well-respected leader in the squad.
Andrew McDonald, Australia’s head coach, praised Stoinis for his influence on and off the field. He highlighted Stoinis’ leadership qualities and the value he brought to the team dynamic.
“Stoin has been such a pivotal part of our ODI setup for the past decade. Not only has he been an invaluable player but also an incredible person to have in the group. He is a natural leader, an exceptionally popular player, and a great person. He should be congratulated on his ODI career and all of his achievements,” McDonald said.
Champions Trophy Squad and Replacement Dilemma
Stoinis had been named in Australia’s squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which added a layer of complexity to his decision. Cricket Australia must now find a suitable replacement for the tournament, as they look to maintain a strong balance within the squad.
With the ODI format requiring versatile all-rounders, selectors will need to assess their options carefully. Players such as Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Sean Abbott could step into the role, depending on the team’s requirements.
Stoinis’ Future in T20 Cricket
With ODIs now behind him, Stoinis aims to focus completely on T20 cricket. He remains an integral part of Australia’s T20I setup and continues to be a sought-after player in various franchise leagues worldwide. His ability to deliver explosive batting performances, along with his handy medium-pace bowling, keeps him in high demand across T20 leagues such as the IPL, BBL, and other global competitions.
Stoinis will look to maximize his impact in the shortest format, with Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign and franchise commitments forming the core of his future plans. His decision reflects the modern shift in cricket, where many players now prioritize T20s due to their financial and career longevity benefits.
Marcus Stoinis’ decision to retire from ODIs marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. His journey in the 50-over format, filled with match-winning performances and memorable moments, leaves a lasting impact. While he steps away from ODIs, his presence in T20 cricket will continue to excite fans around the world.
As Australia moves forward, they must now identify a player who can fill the void left by Stoinis, ensuring the team maintains its balance in the upcoming tournaments. His contributions to Australian cricket remain significant, and his next chapter in T20 cricket promises to be just as exciting.
