Thu Feb 06 15:21:33 UTC 2025: ## Shock Retirement: Stoinis Quits ODI Cricket to Focus on T20

**Melbourne, Australia** – Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has announced his shock retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket, just weeks before the start of the 2025 Champions Trophy. The 35-year-old cited a desire to focus on the T20 format and capitalize on lucrative opportunities in various T20 leagues as the primary reason for his decision.

Stoinis, a key member of Australia’s white-ball squads, leaves a significant gap in the team, which is already grappling with several key player absences. In his 71 ODI appearances, he amassed 1495 runs at an average of 26.69 and a strike rate of 93.96, including six fifties and a century. He also contributed significantly with the ball, taking 48 wickets at an average of 43.12. His memorable 146 against New Zealand in 2017 remains a highlight of his ODI career.

“Playing ODI cricket for Australia has been an incredible journey,” Stoinis said in a statement. “This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right time for me to step away and fully focus on the next chapter of my career.”

The retirement comes after Stoinis sustained a hamstring injury during the recent SA20 tournament. While acknowledging the increasing risk of injury at his age, he emphasized his strong preference for the shorter format and the numerous T20 league opportunities available to him. His departure is a significant blow to Australia’s ODI prospects ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy.

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