In the second T20I between Australia and South Africa, Glenn Maxwell took on an unusual role — bowling inside the PowerPlay. Between the 2022 T20 World Cup and this series, he had bowled only five PowerPlay overs in T20Is. So when he dismissed South Africa captain Aiden Markram, the spin-bowling all-rounder reacted animatedly.
By his own admission, Maxwell is just as surprised as anyone when he gets a wicket.
“I love getting wickets,” Maxwell told cricket.com.au. “It’s very surprising anytime I get anyone out. I’m there to do a job in the PowerPlay and I’m trying to execute that as well as I can.”
With an eye on the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, Maxwell is looking to build his experience bowling under fielding restrictions.
“I think in the subcontinent you might be able to get a little bit more out of it as a spinner early on,” said Maxwell, who has 49 T20I wickets.
“Especially that new ball, the hard seam, being able to grip on those dry surfaces. So it might be something we think about head forward,” he added.
Maxwell has also spent most of his career shuffling through batting positions, adapting to team needs — whether taking on a favourable matchup or finishing the innings.
“I’ve been a bit of the shuffler around the order, up and down,” the 36-year-old said. “I’m filling holes at the moment.”
“Even during the West Indies series, trying to combat Akeal Hosein (by) going up the top, this series going a little bit lower, trying to manage that back end (of the innings). (I’m) trying to play whatever role is needed for me in this side and just try and be as adaptable as possible,” Maxwell said.
