Aussie star announces shock retirement ahead of tournament

The Australian cricket squad has been rocked just weeks out from a major tournament after the shock retirement of a big name star.

Australia all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has hung up the bat from one day international cricket in a shock announcement.

The 35-year-old was recently named in Australia’s squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament.

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But now Australian selectors will be looking to fill the void with Stoinis electing to retire from ODIs to focus on T20 cricket.

Stoinis joins Mitchell Marsh and most likely captain Pat Cummsin and pace ace Josh Hazlewood in withdrawing from the original 15-man squad.

The 35-year-old all-rounder has pulled the pin on playing for Australia in 50-over cricket to focus on T20 cricket as a highly sought-after player in leagues around the world. “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,” Stoinis said.

“Representing my country at the highest level is something I’ll always cherish.

Stoinis is done with ODI cricket. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

“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.

“I’ll be cheering the boys on in Pakistan.”

Stoinis has played just one ODI since being dropped for the semi-final of the 2023 World Cup but was recalled for the Champions Trophy before making the shock decision to retire.

He finished having played 74 ODIs including two World Cups, making a century against NZ in 2017.

National selectors could now have to add up to four players to the squad and Australian Coach Andrew McDonald said Stoinis had been “a pivotal part of our ODI setup for the past decade”.

AHMEDABAD, INDIA - NOVEMBER 04: Marcus Stoinis and Pat Cummins of Australia celebrates the wicket of Chris Woakes of England during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between England and Australia at Narendra Modi Stadium on November 04, 2023 in Ahmedabad, India. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

“Not only has he been an invaluable player but also an incredible person to have in the group,” he said.

“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.”

On Wednesday, McDonald said Cummins and Hazlewood were unlikely to play as well.

“At the moment Pat Cummins hasn’t been able to resume any type of bowling, so he’s heavily unlikely,” McDonald told SEN.

Selectors will finalise the squad for the Champion’s Trophy following the conclusion of the Test series against Sri Lanka.

Originally published as Aussie star announces shock retirement ahead of tournament