Steve Smith ended his ODI career with a heartfelt embrace and a quiet conversation with Virat Kohli. The two, once fierce rivals, shared a moment of mutual respect. Cameras captured Smith likely sharing his retirement decision with Kohli before making it public.

This emotional exchange followed India’s celebrations after securing a Champions Trophy final spot by defeating Australia. Despite their intense battles, the embrace highlighted their long-standing cricketing bond.

Smith’s Dominance Against India

Smith often saved his best for India. Of his 30 ODIs against them, 28 featured Kohli in the opposition ranks. He amassed 1,383 runs at an average of 53.19, scoring five centuries—more than against any other team. In contrast, he managed just two centuries against all other opponents and only one against England in 40 innings.

His most memorable knock came in the 2015 World Cup semi-final at the SCG. That century powered Australia into the final and cemented Smith’s reputation as a big-match performer. Earlier that summer, he had already dominated India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, evolving from a promising all-rounder into a world-class batter.

A Fitting End in Dubai

In his final ODI, Smith played a composed 73 on a slow pitch. He controlled the game’s tempo and manipulated the field—something Indian bowlers had struggled against for years. However, an uncharacteristic slog ended his stay at the crease, marking a bittersweet conclusion to his ODI career.

During the 2023 World Cup final, Indian fans breathed a sigh of relief when Smith departed for just four runs after a contentious LBW decision. Unlike previous encounters, his early dismissal gave India hope. But this time, Travis Head stole the show with a match-winning knock.

In Dubai, India contained both Head and Smith, securing a well-fought victory. As Smith walked off the ODI stage, Kohli was there to share the moment—an apt farewell between two cricketing icons.

Smith’s ODI Legacy

Smith’s ODI stats—an average of 43.28 and a strike rate of 86.96—may not match his Test records, but they highlight his importance to Australia. He often played the anchor role, allowing power-hitters to attack around him.

Though not always considered among the greatest ODI batters, Smith had stretches of brilliance. His back-to-back 62-ball centuries against India in Sydney in 2020, following a 131-run knock in Bengaluru, showcased his elite white-ball skills. Yet, he reserved that gear for key moments rather than making it his default approach.

Now, with his ODI retirement, Indian bowlers can finally relax, knowing they won’t face his precise shot-making again. And as he said goodbye, it felt fitting that he did so in the arms of Kohli—his greatest rival and longtime cricketing mate.