Glenn Maxwell retires from international cricket in 2026. Discover why he retired, career stats, World Cup wins, records, best innings and future plans.
Glenn Maxwell Retirement 2026
Why Australia’s star retired from international cricket, plus career stats, records, World Cup wins and future plans.
Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket in November 2026, ending a remarkable 14-year career with Australia. The 38-year-old all-rounder played 286 international matches, scored 7,226 runs and took 136 wickets. Maxwell, who had already retired from ODIs in 2025, will continue playing franchise T20 cricket despite stepping away from international and Victorian domestic cricket.
Australian cricket has reached the end of an unforgettable era.
Glenn Maxwell, one of the most explosive batters and innovative all-rounders in modern cricket, has officially retired from international cricket.
Popularly known as The Big Show, Maxwell entertained cricket fans with his fearless batting, unconventional shots, useful off-spin bowling and outstanding fielding.
From his extraordinary 201 not out against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup to his match-winning performances in major tournaments, Maxwell built a career full of unforgettable moments.
He was part of Australia’s winning teams at the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups and the 2021 T20 World Cup.
His retirement brings an end to a 14-year international journey, but it does not mean he is leaving professional cricket completely.
Here is everything you need to know about Glenn Maxwell’s retirement announcement, the reason behind his decision, his career statistics, major records, World Cup achievements and what he plans to do next.
Published: 3 November 2026 | Category: Cricket News
Glenn Maxwell Retirement 2026: Latest News and Key Details
Glenn Maxwell announced his retirement from international cricket during an episode of The Final Word podcast released in early November 2026.
He had already retired from One Day Internationals in June 2025.
His latest announcement confirms that he will no longer represent Australia in T20 internationals, bringing his international career across all three formats to an end.
He has also stepped away from Victoria’s domestic 50-over and four-day cricket competitions.
Glenn Maxwell Retirement: Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Glenn James Maxwell |
| Country | Australia |
| Date of birth | 14 October 1988 |
| Age at retirement | 38 years |
| International retirement | November 2026 |
| ODI retirement | June 2025 |
| International career | 2012–2026 |
| Playing role | Batting all-rounder |
| Batting style | Right-handed |
| Bowling style | Right-arm off-spin |
| International matches | 286 |
| International runs | 7,226 |
| International wickets | 136 |
| International centuries | 10 |
| ICC World Cup titles | 3 |
| Nickname | The Big Show |
| Franchise cricket | Expected to continue |
Maxwell’s departure is particularly significant because he was one of Australia’s most experienced T20 players.
Why Did Glenn Maxwell Retire From International Cricket?
Glenn Maxwell’s retirement decision was influenced by his physical fitness, the demands of professional cricket and Australia’s plans to introduce younger players.
During his international career, Maxwell dealt with several injuries, including a serious leg injury in 2022.
The physical demands of international cricket became increasingly difficult as he entered the later stages of his career.
He had already retired from ODIs in 2025 because he felt that continuing in the 50-over format would be physically challenging.
1. Managing His Fitness
Maxwell explained that he wanted to spend more time looking after his body.
International cricket involves frequent travel, demanding training schedules and intense competition.
At 38, he decided that reducing his workload would help him remain fit for the professional tournaments he still intends to play.
2. Australia’s Focus on Young Players
Australia is preparing for the next generation of international cricket.
With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics approaching, selectors are looking at younger T20 players and future squad combinations.
Maxwell understood that the team was moving in a different direction.
3. Missing a Farewell Match at the MCG
Maxwell had hoped to play one final international match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Australia’s upcoming T20I series against England appeared to offer a possible opportunity.
However, he was not selected for the series.
The decision ended his hopes of a farewell appearance on his home ground.
4. Continuing His Franchise Career
Maxwell has not retired from every form of professional cricket.
He plans to continue playing franchise T20 tournaments, including the Big Bash League.
His retirement allows him to focus on shorter competitions while managing his physical condition.
What Did Glenn Maxwell Say About His Retirement?
Maxwell discussed his decision on The Final Word podcast.
He expressed gratitude for his international career and explained that he needed to focus more on his physical fitness.
He also acknowledged Australia’s plans to develop younger players.
Maxwell said he had hoped for a farewell appearance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground but understood the selectors’ decision.
His comments showed both appreciation for his career and acceptance that it was time for a new generation to take over.
The announcement marks the end of his international playing career, but not his involvement in competitive T20 cricket.
Glenn Maxwell International Career Stats: Tests, ODIs and T20Is
Glenn Maxwell represented Australia in all three formats of international cricket.
Although he played relatively few Test matches, he became one of Australia’s most influential limited-overs players.
His ability to score quickly, contribute with off-spin and field brilliantly made him a valuable all-rounder.
Glenn Maxwell Career Statistics Across All Formats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Highest score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 7 | 339 | 104 |
| ODI | 149 | 3,990 | 201* |
| T20I | 130 | 2,897 | 145* |
| Total | 286 | 7,226 | 201* |
Career Achievements
| Record | Total |
|---|---|
| International matches | 286 |
| International runs | 7,226 |
| International centuries | 10 |
| International wickets | 136 |
| ODI centuries | 4 |
| T20I centuries | 5 |
| Test centuries | 1 |
| ICC world titles | 3 |
Maxwell finished with more than 7,000 international runs and over 100 wickets.
His career statistics highlight his importance as a genuine batting all-rounder.
Glenn Maxwell ODI Career Stats and Records
One Day International cricket was the format in which Maxwell delivered some of his greatest performances.
He made his ODI debut for Australia in 2012.
Over the following years, he developed into one of the world’s most dangerous middle-order batters.
His aggressive approach helped Australia accelerate during the final overs and recover from difficult situations.
Glenn Maxwell ODI Statistics
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches | 149 |
| Runs | 3,990 |
| Highest score | 201* |
| Batting strike rate | 126.70 |
| Centuries | 4 |
| ODI wickets | 77 |
| ODI World Cup titles | 2 |
Maxwell’s ODI strike rate of 126.70 was remarkable for a player with nearly 4,000 runs.
He played an important role in Australia’s ODI World Cup victories in 2015 and 2023.
His greatest ODI innings came against Afghanistan during the 2023 World Cup.
Glenn Maxwell T20I Career Stats: Runs, Centuries and Records
T20 cricket suited Maxwell’s attacking batting style.
He could hit boundaries in almost every direction and change the course of a match within a few overs.
His reverse sweeps, switch hits and powerful straight shots made him difficult to bowl to.
Glenn Maxwell T20 International Statistics
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches | 130 |
| Runs | 2,897 |
| Batting average | 28.97 |
| Strike rate | 154.42 |
| Highest score | 145* |
| Centuries | 5 |
| Wickets | 51 |
| Catches | 62 |
| T20 World Cup titles | 1 |
Maxwell’s five T20I centuries place him among the format’s most successful century-makers.
As of his retirement announcement, he shared the record of five men’s T20I hundreds with Rohit Sharma.
He was also one of the few Australian players to score international centuries in Tests, ODIs and T20Is.
Glenn Maxwell Test Career Stats
Although Maxwell became famous for his white-ball performances, he also represented Australia in Test cricket.
He played seven Tests between 2013 and 2017.
His most memorable Test innings came against India in Ranchi in March 2017.
Maxwell scored 104 runs, registering his first and only Test century.
Glenn Maxwell Test Statistics
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Matches | 7 |
| Runs | 339 |
| Highest score | 104 |
| Centuries | 1 |
| Test debut | 2013 |
| Last Test | 2017 |
His Test career was relatively short, but his century against India showed that he could also succeed in the longest format.
Glenn Maxwell’s 201 Not Out Against Afghanistan: His Greatest ODI Innings
One innings stands above almost every other performance in Glenn Maxwell’s career.
On 7 November 2023, Maxwell scored an extraordinary unbeaten 201 against Afghanistan during the ODI World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Australia was chasing 292 runs.
At one stage, the team had collapsed to 91/7.
Afghanistan appeared to be heading towards a historic victory.
However, Maxwell produced one of the greatest rescue acts in ODI history.
Despite suffering from severe cramps and struggling to move freely, he continued batting.
He attacked the bowlers with remarkable power and determination.
Together with captain Pat Cummins, Maxwell guided Australia to a stunning victory.
Glenn Maxwell 201* vs Afghanistan Scorecard
| Match detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Australia vs Afghanistan |
| Tournament | ODI World Cup 2023 |
| Date | 7 November 2023 |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Afghanistan score | 291/5 |
| Australia score | 293/7 |
| Maxwell’s score | 201* |
| Balls faced | 128 |
| Fours | 21 |
| Sixes | 10 |
| Strike rate | 157.03 |
| Match result | Australia won by 3 wickets |
Why Was Maxwell’s 201* So Special?
Maxwell became the first Australian man to score a double century in ODI cricket.
His innings was also the first ODI double century scored by a batter while chasing a target.
He shared an unbeaten 202-run partnership with Pat Cummins for the eighth wicket.
Cummins contributed just 12 runs from 68 balls, while Maxwell dominated the scoring.
The partnership took Australia from 91/7 to victory.
Maxwell’s innings remains one of the most remarkable performances in World Cup history.
Glenn Maxwell’s Fastest ODI World Cup Century
Maxwell also created history during the 2023 ODI World Cup against the Netherlands.
He scored a century from just 40 balls in Delhi.
At the time, it was the fastest century in men’s ODI World Cup history.
Glenn Maxwell vs Netherlands – World Cup 2023
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Netherlands |
| Date | 25 October 2023 |
| Venue | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
| Runs | 106 |
| Balls | 44 |
| Balls to century | 40 |
| Fours | 9 |
| Sixes | 8 |
| Strike rate | 240.91 |
Maxwell’s innings helped Australia post a huge total and secure a dominant victory.
It was another example of his ability to change a match through aggressive batting.
Glenn Maxwell’s Three ICC World Cup Titles
Maxwell was part of three World Cup-winning Australian teams.
He played important roles in both ODI and T20 cricket.
Glenn Maxwell World Cup Achievements
| Year | Tournament | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | ICC ODI Cricket World Cup | Australia |
| 2021 | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup | Australia |
| 2023 | ICC ODI Cricket World Cup | Australia |
2015 ODI World Cup
Maxwell was an important part of Australia’s batting line-up during the 2015 tournament.
Australia defeated New Zealand in the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Maxwell contributed with aggressive batting and useful bowling throughout the competition.
2021 T20 World Cup
Australia won its first men’s T20 World Cup title in 2021.
Maxwell was part of the victorious team and hit the winning boundary against New Zealand in the final.
2023 ODI World Cup
The 2023 tournament featured some of Maxwell’s greatest international performances.
His 201 not out against Afghanistan and 40-ball century against the Netherlands were major highlights.
Australia went on to defeat India in the final at Ahmedabad.
Maxwell finished his international career as a three-time ICC World Cup winner.
Glenn Maxwell’s Biggest International Cricket Records
Maxwell built his reputation through aggressive batting, match-winning innings and all-round performances.
Major Records and Achievements
| Record | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Highest ODI score | 201* vs Afghanistan |
| Highest T20I score | 145* vs Sri Lanka |
| Fastest ODI World Cup century at the time | 40 balls vs Netherlands |
| Men’s T20I centuries | 5 |
| International centuries | 10 |
| International wickets | 136 |
| ODI World Cup titles | 2015, 2023 |
| T20 World Cup title | 2021 |
| First Australian men’s ODI double century | 201* in 2023 |
| Centuries in all three international formats | Achieved |
These achievements explain why Maxwell is regarded as one of Australia’s most influential modern white-ball cricketers.
Glenn Maxwell’s Five Most Memorable International Innings
Maxwell played many entertaining innings during his international career.
Five performances stand out because of their impact, records and match situations.
1. 201* vs Afghanistan – ODI World Cup 2023
Maxwell rescued Australia from 91/7 and completed an extraordinary run chase despite severe cramps.
2. 106 vs Netherlands – ODI World Cup 2023
He scored a century from 40 balls, setting a new men’s ODI World Cup record at the time.
3. 145* vs Sri Lanka – T20I 2016
Maxwell produced a spectacular unbeaten 145 in Pallekele.
It remains his highest T20 international score.
4. 104 vs India – Test 2017
Maxwell scored his only Test century during the Ranchi Test.
The innings showed his ability to contribute in red-ball cricket.
5. 113* vs India – T20I 2019
Maxwell scored an unbeaten 113 against India in Bengaluru.
His innings helped Australia chase 191 and win the match.
When Did Glenn Maxwell Play His Last International Match?
Maxwell’s final international appearance came against Oman during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in February 2026.
He bowled three overs and took two wickets for 13 runs.
Australia did not require him to bat in that match.
At the time, Maxwell had not officially announced that it would be his final appearance.
His retirement announcement in November confirmed that he would not return to international cricket.
Is Glenn Maxwell Retired From IPL and Franchise Cricket?
No. Glenn Maxwell has retired from international cricket, not all professional cricket.
He plans to continue participating in franchise T20 competitions.
His future playing schedule will depend on team contracts, fitness and tournament commitments.
Will Glenn Maxwell Play in the Big Bash League?
Maxwell is expected to continue representing Melbourne Stars in Australia’s Big Bash League.
The BBL allows him to remain involved in competitive cricket without the full workload of international tours.
Will Glenn Maxwell Play IPL 2027?
Maxwell’s international retirement does not automatically prevent him from playing in the Indian Premier League.
However, his IPL 2027 participation will depend on auction or contract arrangements, team selection and fitness.
As of 3 November 2026, his participation in IPL 2027 should not be treated as confirmed.
Why Was Glenn Maxwell Called The Big Show?
Maxwell earned the nickname The Big Show because of his aggressive batting and ability to entertain spectators.
He was known for attempting shots that many traditional batters avoided.
His switch hits, reverse sweeps, powerful sixes and quick scoring made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
Maxwell could also contribute as an off-spin bowler and athletic fielder.
His style helped redefine expectations for middle-order batting in limited-overs cricket.
What Does Glenn Maxwell’s Retirement Mean for Australia?
Maxwell’s retirement leaves Australia without one of its most experienced T20 all-rounders.
He offered a rare combination of batting power, off-spin bowling and outstanding fielding.
His ability to score quickly against both pace and spin was particularly valuable.
Australia will now need to develop new players capable of filling those roles.
Three Challenges for Australia
Middle-order power: Finding a batter who can accelerate immediately after arriving at the crease.
All-round balance: Replacing a player who could contribute with both bat and ball.
Big-match experience: Maxwell had played in multiple ICC tournaments and World Cup-winning teams.
Australia’s younger players will have opportunities to establish themselves before future global tournaments.
Glenn Maxwell’s Legacy in International Cricket
Maxwell’s career cannot be judged only by runs, wickets or batting averages.
He changed the way many cricket fans viewed limited-overs batting.
He demonstrated that unconventional shots could be used successfully at the highest level.
His ability to attack spinners, score quickly under pressure and produce extraordinary innings made him one of Australia’s most dangerous players.
His 201 not out against Afghanistan will remain a defining moment in World Cup history.
His three ICC titles also highlight his contribution to successful Australian teams.
Maxwell leaves international cricket with a reputation as a fearless match-winner and one of the most entertaining all-rounders of his generation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glenn Maxwell Retirement 2026
1. Has Glenn Maxwell retired from international cricket?
Yes. Glenn Maxwell announced his retirement from international cricket in November 2026.
2. When did Glenn Maxwell announce his retirement?
His announcement became public in early November 2026, with the ICC reporting it on 2 November.
3. Why did Glenn Maxwell retire?
He cited the need to manage his body and acknowledged Australia’s plans to develop younger players.
4. How old is Glenn Maxwell at retirement?
He is 38 years old.
5. Has Maxwell retired from all formats?
Yes, he has retired from all three international formats: Tests, ODIs and T20Is.
6. When did Maxwell retire from ODI cricket?
He retired from ODIs in June 2025.
7. Is Glenn Maxwell retiring from IPL?
His international retirement does not mean he has retired from the IPL or other franchise leagues.
8. Will Maxwell play IPL 2027?
His participation has not been confirmed and will depend on contracts, selection and fitness.
9. Will Maxwell play in the Big Bash League?
He plans to continue playing franchise T20 cricket, including for Melbourne Stars.
10. How many international matches did Maxwell play?
He played 286 international matches.
11. How many international runs did Maxwell score?
He scored 7,226 runs across Tests, ODIs and T20Is.
12. How many international wickets did Maxwell take?
He took 136 international wickets.
13. How many ODI runs did Maxwell score?
He scored 3,990 runs in 149 ODIs.
14. How many T20I runs did Maxwell score?
He scored 2,897 runs in 130 T20 internationals.
15. How many Test matches did Maxwell play?
He played seven Tests.
16. What is Glenn Maxwell’s highest ODI score?
His highest ODI score is 201 not out against Afghanistan in 2023.
17. What is Glenn Maxwell’s highest T20I score?
His highest T20I score is 145 not out against Sri Lanka in 2016.
18. How many international centuries did Maxwell score?
He scored 10 international centuries.
19. How many T20I centuries did Maxwell score?
He scored five T20I centuries.
20. How many ODI centuries did Maxwell score?
He scored four ODI centuries.
21. Did Maxwell score a Test century?
Yes. He scored 104 against India in Ranchi in 2017.
22. How many World Cups did Maxwell win?
He was part of three ICC World Cup-winning Australian teams.
23. Which ODI World Cups did Maxwell win?
He won the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups.
24. Did Maxwell win the T20 World Cup?
Yes. He was part of Australia’s victorious 2021 T20 World Cup team.
25. What was Maxwell’s fastest ODI World Cup century?
He scored a century from 40 balls against the Netherlands in 2023.
26. Against which team did Maxwell score 201 not out?
He scored 201 not out against Afghanistan.
27. Where did Maxwell score his ODI double century?
At Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
28. What was Maxwell’s last international match?
His last international appearance was against Oman at the 2026 T20 World Cup.
29. Why is Maxwell called The Big Show?
The nickname reflects his explosive batting and entertaining style.
30. Did Maxwell want a farewell match?
Yes. He had hoped to play a final international match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
31. Why did Maxwell not receive an MCG farewell match?
Australia selected a younger T20 squad as part of its future planning.
32. Is Maxwell retiring from domestic cricket?
He has also stepped away from Victoria’s domestic 50-over and four-day cricket competitions.
33. Will Maxwell continue professional cricket?
Yes. He intends to continue playing franchise T20 cricket.
34. What is Maxwell’s ODI batting strike rate?
His career ODI strike rate was approximately 126.70.
35. What is Maxwell’s T20I batting strike rate?
His T20I strike rate was approximately 154.42.
Conclusion
Glenn Maxwell’s retirement from international cricket marks the end of one of Australia’s most entertaining cricket careers.
Across 14 years, Maxwell played 286 international matches, scored 7,226 runs and claimed 136 wickets.
He won two ODI World Cups and one T20 World Cup, becoming an important part of Australia’s success in limited-overs cricket.
His unforgettable 201 not out against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup remains one of the greatest ODI innings ever played.
Although Maxwell will no longer represent Australia internationally, cricket fans may still see him in franchise T20 tournaments.
His career will be remembered for fearless batting, unusual shots, match-winning performances and an approach that inspired a generation of attacking cricketers.
The Big Show may have left international cricket, but his greatest performances will remain part of cricket history.
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