The ODI format is the least popular version of the game right now. While Test cricket still has admirers because of it’s history, T20, of course, is the “fast food” of cricket. Players, too, are starting to realize the same. Moreover, with the hectic schedule at the moment, it is hard to participate in all three formats of the game. Therefore, a few cricketers have started to retired from ODIs to prolong their careers in the other two formats. On that note, in this article, we take a look at the list of two players who recently quit only ODI cricket.
1) Ben Stokes – England
Ben Stokes surprised all by retiring from the ODI format recently. Winner of the 2019 World Cup, Stokes is a high quality cricketer in all forms of the game. With Eoin Morgan retiring recently, many expected Stokes to take up a more criticial role in the middle-order. However, since he was also appointed captain of Tests and with the T20 format designed well for the players, Stokes had to take the decision to step aside from the 50-over format. England will have a tough time in replacing the player. There are plenty of options who are available but it would be hard to match the impact of Ben Stokes.
2) Kevin O’Brien – Ireland
Kevin O’Brien is also one of the players who recently quit only ODI cricket. The Irishman was the star in Ireland’s famous win over England in the 2011 World Cup. Kevin retired from ODI cricket in 2021. He wants to prolong his T20 career but unfortunately, he is not in the scheme of things right now. That said, he could still make a comeback to the squad. Ireland has many good players coming through. The future looks bright and the experience of Kevin might become useful.
