Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career with Australia. The 38-year-old confirmed his decision on November 2, 2026, during an appearance on The Final Word podcast.
Known as “The Big Show,” Maxwell became one of the most entertaining players in modern cricket. His aggressive batting, innovative shots, and ability to change a game in a few overs made him a key player for Australia, especially in white-ball cricket.
Maxwell’s retirement also marks the end of his international T20 career. He had already stepped away from One-Day International (ODI) cricket in June 2025. He will also retire from domestic 50-over and four-day cricket for Victoria but plans to continue playing franchise T20 cricket, including the Big Bash League (BBL) for Melbourne Stars.
Why Has Glenn Maxwell Retired From International Cricket?
Maxwell’s decision comes after several discussions about his future with the Australian team management.
The all-rounder explained that there was no pressure from the team management to make an immediate decision. However, Australia had started giving opportunities to younger players, and Maxwell understood the team’s plans for the future.
He also wants to focus more on his fitness and physical condition so he can continue playing in the remaining tournaments of his career.
Maxwell had also hoped to receive a farewell match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), but that opportunity did not happen. Australia is looking to build its squad for upcoming international tournaments, including the 2028 Olympics.
Glenn Maxwell’s International Cricket Career and Stats
Maxwell made his international debut for Australia in 2012 and went on to represent the country in all three formats.
He played 286 international matches, scoring more than 7,000 runs and taking 136 wickets. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him an important part of Australia’s white-ball setup.
Glenn Maxwell international career stats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
| Test | 7 | 339 | 104 |
| ODI | 149 | 3,990 | 201* |
| T20I | 130 | 2,897 | 145* |
Maxwell also scored 10 international centuries and took 136 wickets across formats.
In T20 internationals, he finished with five centuries, a record he shares with former Indian captain Rohit Sharma.
Glenn Maxwell’s Biggest Achievements With Australia
Maxwell was part of several successful Australian teams during his international career. He won three major ICC trophies and delivered some unforgettable performances.
1. Two ODI World Cup Titles
Maxwell was part of Australia’s World Cup-winning teams in 2015 and 2023.
While the 2015 tournament was an important achievement early in his career, his performances in the 2023 World Cup further established his reputation as one of the most dangerous white-ball players.
2. 2021 T20 World Cup Winner
Maxwell also played a role in Australia’s historic T20 World Cup victory in 2021.
Australia defeated New Zealand in the final to win their first men’s T20 World Cup title. Maxwell scored the winning runs in the final, finishing the tournament with a memorable contribution.
3. Unforgettable 201 Against Afghanistan
One of the greatest moments of Maxwell’s career came during the 2023 ODI World Cup match against Afghanistan in Mumbai.
Australia were in serious trouble at 91/7 while chasing a target of 292 runs. Maxwell then produced an incredible unbeaten 201 off just 128 balls to take Australia to victory.
He hit 21 fours and 10 sixes during his innings. Despite struggling with severe cramps and having difficulty running between the wickets, he continued batting and completed a remarkable double century.
Australia won the match by three wickets, and Maxwell’s innings became one of the most memorable performances in ODI World Cup history.
Glenn Maxwell’s T20I Records
Maxwell was particularly successful in the shortest format of international cricket.
Some of his important T20I achievements include:
- Played 130 T20 international matches for Australia.
- Scored 2,897 runs at a strike rate of 154.4.
- Hit five T20I centuries.
- Recorded a highest score of 145 not out against Sri Lanka in 2016.
- Finished among Australia’s leading run-scorers in T20 internationals.
His aggressive batting style and ability to play unconventional shots made him a difficult player for bowlers to control.
Will Glenn Maxwell Play in the Big Bash League After Retirement?
Yes, Maxwell is not retiring from all forms of cricket.
Although he will no longer represent Australia at the international level, he plans to continue playing franchise T20 cricket.
He is expected to remain with the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League. The franchise has him under contract until the end of the 2027-28 season.
Maxwell will also focus on his fitness and recovery to prepare for upcoming franchise tournaments.
What Is Next for Glenn Maxwell?
Maxwell’s international retirement closes an important chapter in Australian cricket, but fans will still have opportunities to watch him play in T20 leagues.
At 38, he has decided to step away from international cricket and focus on his remaining playing career.
His performances, especially his incredible 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup, will remain an important part of cricket history.
Glenn Maxwell leaves international cricket as a two-time ODI World Cup winner, a T20 World Cup champion, and one of Australia’s most entertaining all-rounders.
