Steve Smith informed Virat Kohli first about his retirement? Viral video sends shockwaves

Australia National Cricket Team captain Steve Smith faced heartbreak as his team bowed out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with India securing a thrilling four-wicket victory in the semifinal in Dubai. A heartwarming moment between Steve Smith and Virat Kohli stole the spotlight after India made it to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final on March 9.

As soon as KL Rahul smashed the winning six off Glenn Maxwell, the Indian dressing room erupted with joy. Rahul let out a roar, while senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma embraced in celebration. Amidst India’s celebration, Smith and Kohli shared a respectful exchange, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and respect between two modern-day greats.

Virat Kohli and Steve Smith share heartfelt moment after ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Semifinal

In the viral video, the Australian star was seen placing his hand on Virat Kohli’s shoulders while speaking to him, creating a wholesome moment on the field that caught everyone’s attention. Steve Smith could be seen saying something to Kohli before their emotional hug.

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This emotional moment hinted that the Indian batting icon was among the first ones who were informed about his retirement by the Australian star. Later, Kohli warmly hugged Glenn Maxwell as well. The duo spoke to each other for a while.

You will always remain my fav foreign cricketer pic.twitter.com/1lOJ1yhwKy

— Abhi (@CoverDrive001) March 5, 2025

The moment was reminiscent of 2019 when Virat Kohli had urged Indian fans not to boo Smith after his return from a one-year suspension due to the Sandpaper Gate controversy despite their past history. They had been involved in some heated exchanges in the past.

Steve Smith announces retirement from ODI cricket

On Wednesday, March 5, Smith called time on his ODI career, as he has decided to prioritize Test and T20I cricket. The 35-year-old also revealed that he is aiming to play in the 2028 Olympics for Australia, where cricket is set to be included, so he wants to strengthen his career.

Read Also: Watch: Anushka Sharma literally dozes off while watching Virat Kohli bat in CT 2025 semi-final

Speaking about the high-stakes semifinal between India and Australia, Smith won the toss and opted to bat first at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. They had a strong start, but Indian bowlers quickly took control. Mohammed Shami led the attack with three crucial wickets, while Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with two each.

Australia was bowled out for 264 in 49.3 overs, and Steve Smith was the top scorer with 73 runs off 96 balls against India. Alex Carey also played a crucial knock of 61 runs against the Men in Blue. India’s chase was steady and composed, with Kohli playing a remarkable knock of 84 runs.

Smith hails Kohli as the best chaser the game has ever seen

Shreyas Iyer contributed 45, while KL Rahul’s unbeaten 42 ensured India crossed the finish line with four wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Both Kohli and Smith delivered strong performances, but it was the former Indian skipper whose innings took his team to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final.

Kohli was adjudged Player of the Match for his match-winning knock in the semifinal. On being asked whether Kohli is the best chaser in ODI cricket, Smith said, “He's arguably the best chaser the game has seen.”