Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is suspected to have sustained a low-grade hamstring strain during the third T20I against Pakistan in Hobart on Monday, November 18. The 36-year-old left the field after the 13th over of the first innings and was later seen in the dugout in a tracksuit.
Maxwell appeared to injure himself while attempting a direct hit at the stumps during the fourth delivery of the 13th over, after running across to short midwicket. He was seen clutching his hamstring immediately afterward.
Commentators initially speculated whether Maxwell was dealing with cramps or had strained his hamstring while chasing the ball. It turned out to be the latter, as Maxwell looked uncomfortable, hobbling around before walking off for medical assessment.
“Glenn has sustained a suspected low-grade hamstring strain. He may bat if required,” Cricket Australia released a statement on social media.
With plenty of bowling options available, Maxwell wasn’t needed to bowl but showed his usual brilliance in the field during his time on the pitch. When Maxwell left the field, Pakistan were at 92/5, and they soon collapsed, getting bowled out for 118, putting them at risk of a 3-0 whitewash in the T20I series.
Excluding Maxwell, Australia has six capable batters, and with a small target in relatively easy conditions, it’s unlikely he’ll be called upon to bat.
Glenn Maxwell is hopeful of being fully fit by the start of the 2024-25 BBL season
The all-rounder, who also captains the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League (BBL), faces a challenging race against time to regain full fitness ahead of the upcoming season. Maxwell’s recovery will be crucial, as the Stars are set to kick off their campaign on December 15 with an away match against the Perth Scorchers.
With the season fast approaching, Maxwell will need to recover quickly to ensure he’s ready for the high-stakes opening clash.
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