New Delhi: Renowned Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has raised the possibility of his absence from the upcoming ODI series against India as he continues to grapple with ankle soreness stemming from a leg injury sustained at a friend’s birthday party last year. Maxwell, who is currently in Australia awaiting the birth of his first child, is also casting a cautious eye on the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, acknowledging that he may enter the tournament with limited match practice.
Maxwell’s injury concerns have cast uncertainty over his participation in Australia’s ODI series in India, set to take place later this month. However, the 34-year-old cricketer maintains that his primary focus is on ensuring he is fit for the World Cup.
“I still want to play some part in that India series. But I’m not feeling any pressure on it. The selectors and the staff have been brilliant with me as well. They don’t want to put too much pressure on me to set a specific date because they recognise they have some extra time before the World Cup. So, instead of rushing it and potentially setting myself back by a week or two, I want to ensure I have ample time to get through the entire tournament,” said Maxwell.
As a seasoned campaigner who has represented Australia in the two most recent World Cup campaigns in 2015 and 2019, Maxwell is a vital asset to the five-time champions. His ability to score quickly and contribute with both bat and ball along with his exceptional fielding makes him an indispensable member of the team.
Maxwell’s last appearance for Australia was in an ODI against India at Wankhede in March, and he has not played any cricket at any level since featuring in a solitary match for Warwickshire in an English County Championship game at the start of July. His intended participation in the T20I component of Australia’s South Africa tour was curtailed due to ankle soreness.
Reflecting on his injury, Maxwell explained, “I couldn’t have anticipated how sore I was going to be when I arrived in South Africa. It was unexpected. Even during training that day, I felt fine. There was no issue until something impinged. I believe one of the tendons around my ankle became inflamed, causing swelling and discomfort.”
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