Dhaka, Nov 03 (V7N)- Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished career spanning multiple formats. The 38-year-old will also step away from first-class and List A cricket but will continue playing franchise cricket, including the Big Bash League (BBL).

Maxwell has renewed his contract with Melbourne Stars until the end of the 2027-28 season, ensuring his continued presence in the Australian domestic T20 competition.

The explosive all-rounder had previously retired from One-Day International (ODI) cricket in June last year but remained available for T20 Internationals. He represented Australia in the 2026 T20 World Cup, although the team failed to advance beyond the group stage. His final international appearance came against Oman last February, where he claimed two wickets but did not get an opportunity to bat.

Speaking on the 'The Final Word' podcast, Maxwell revealed that he had discussed his retirement plans with Australian team management both before and after the T20 World Cup. He said the management had not put any pressure on him, allowing him to make the decision independently.

With Australia preparing for several upcoming international assignments, Maxwell acknowledged that the team needed to focus on the next generation of players. He also highlighted the impressive performances of younger cricketers who received opportunities during recent series, including the Bangladesh series.

A two-time ODI World Cup winner, Maxwell was also part of Australia's historic 2021 T20 World Cup-winning squad. He had hoped to make one final international appearance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue that has been close to his heart throughout his career.

Maxwell admitted that he had entertained the possibility of receiving a farewell match at the MCG. However, he understands Australia's long-term plans, particularly with the 2028 Olympic Games approaching. He believes the next 12 to 24 months will be important for introducing young players to international cricket and preparing them for the demands of the highest level.

Despite stepping away from international cricket, Maxwell has remained active in franchise competitions. Last September, he captained Belfast Wolves to the final of the inaugural European T20 Premier League. Just five days later, he featured in two matches for Victoria in the One-Day Cup.

He described announcing his retirement to his Victoria teammates after his final one-day appearance as an emotional moment, acknowledging the tremendous support he had received throughout his career.

Maxwell also revealed that he wanted to give his body more time to recover, particularly because of ongoing knee problems. He had considered preparing for a T20 match against England in Melbourne but eventually decided to prioritise treatment and rehabilitation ahead of the next BBL season. He estimated that he would need another eight weeks of intensive rehabilitation to regain full match fitness.

Reflecting on his connection with the MCG, Maxwell said he had often imagined a farewell similar to those enjoyed by his childhood heroes. Of all the international formats, he had particularly hoped for a memorable send-off in T20 cricket.

During his international career, Maxwell played 130 T20 Internationals for Australia, scoring 2,897 runs at a strike rate of 154.42 and taking 51 wickets. He also scored five centuries in the format, sharing the world record with India's Rohit Sharma.

In Test cricket, Maxwell represented Australia in seven matches, scoring 339 runs. His highest Test score was 104 against India in Ranchi, with his final appearance in the longest format coming in 2017.

Although his international journey has come to an end, Maxwell's explosive batting, innovative stroke play and valuable all-round contributions have secured his place among Australia's most memorable modern cricketers. He will now look to continue entertaining fans on the franchise cricket circuit.

END/SMA/AJ