Australia after losing to India in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While the team had a good tournament, unexpected news Steve Smith announced his retirement from ODI cricket.  

Smith is known for his success and best solid defense in Test cricket, but he has also been a key player in ODIs, scoring 5,800 runs at an average of 43.28 in 170 matches. He played an important role at the top of the order, keeping the innings steady in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.  

After Smith retired, Australia had to find someone to take his place. Replacing a three-time World Cup winner won’t be easy, and whoever takes responsibility in crucial times.

Three players who could take his role in the ODIs:

3. Matthew Short

Matthew Short could be the best option to replace Steve Smith in the ODI team. Though he has been opening the batting lately, he might also be considered for the number three spot and he is Capable to do things like Steve Smith. He has the skills and technique to play a similar role to Smith, he has a great chance for him to prove himself.  

Short has played 15 ODIs for Australia, scoring 280 runs, including two half-centuries one of them against England in the Champions Trophy. Besides his batting, he can also bowl handy off-spin, adding extra options in spin to the team.  

Short has already made a big impact with the Adelaide Strikers in the BBL. With his all-around abilities, he could be a strong choice to replace Steve Smith for the number three position in ODIs.

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2. Cooper Connolly

Cooper Connolly is a young talent and skilled player in Australian cricket. The 21-year-old all-rounder hasn’t had the best start to his international career yet, but he has done well in domestic Cricket and BBL. He’s a strong batter and can also bowl left-arm spin.  

Cooper Connolly has played only four ODIs so far, but his performances in first-class cricket and the Big Bash League have been impressive. He had a great BBL season with the Perth Scorchers, scoring 351 runs at an average of 50.14. With his skills and potential, he could be a good option for Australia to develop for Steve Smith’s role in the ODI team.

1. Marnus Labuschagne

Marnus Labuschagne has been a good player in the middle order, but with Steve Smith retiring, he could move up to take the number three spot and he has that Capability to play in NO.3. He has skills and he played so many Crucial games in tough times, not just in ODIs but also in Test cricket. Marnus Labuschagne is known for his stylish shots and ability to play long innings, making him a strong option to replace Smith.  

Labuschagne played 63 matches, scoring 1,869 runs at an average of 35.94, with two centuries and 12 half-centuries in ODIs. With his batting and leadership potential, he could also be a future captain for the Australian team.