In an ongoing 2nd T20I showdown between Australia and West Indies at Adelaide Oval, Glenn Maxwell showcased a masterclass in power-hitting, propelling Australia to a monumental 241/4. Maxwell’s blazing innings of 120 runs off just 55 balls featured a staggering array of 12 boundaries and 8 maximums. The highlight was a breathtaking switch-hit six against Akela Hossain, leaving spectators in awe of his audacious strokeplay.
Australian top order stumbles: Early woes
Winning the toss the West Indies invited the host to bat. Australia’s innings started with adversity as opener Josh Inglis departed early, attempting a pull shot against Jason Holder. The top-order continued to face challenges with Mitchell Marsh‘s aggressive cameo cut short at 29 and David Warner falling for 22. At 64/3, the Australian innings seemed perilously poised, but Maxwell had different plans.
Glenn Maxwell-Marcus Stoinis partnership: Turning the tide
Maxwell’s onslaught gained momentum alongside Marcus Stoinis, forging a vital 82-run partnership for the fourth wicket. The duo’s aggressive approach not only resurrected the innings but also set the stage for an explosive finish.
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Switch-hit showstopper: Glenn Maxwell’s audacious innovation
Sensing Maxwell’s destructive form, the West Indies captain Rovman Powell handed the ball to Hosein, aiming for economical bowling to halt Maxwell’s innings. Unfortunately for West Indies, the decision backfired as, on the third ball of the 13th over, Maxwell anticipated Hosein’s delivery who bowled an half-cracker, executed a sublime switch-hit, and launched the ball miles back over deep cover, scoring an astounding 89 meters. This spectacular display exemplified Maxwell’s dominance and the challenges faced by the West Indian bowlers in containing his onslaught.
Here’s the video:
Right, left, who cares?!
Glenn Maxwell 🔥🔥🔥#PlayOfTheDay | #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/QgawIX5OOy
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 11, 2024
Late onslaught with Tim David: A commanding finish
After Stoinis’s departure, Maxwell joined forces with Tim David, unleashing an unbeaten 95 runs partnership for the sixth wicket in just 38 balls. Their partnership propelled Australia to a colossal total, and Maxwell’s ability to score a 50-ball hundred showcased his dominance in the shortest format. Furthermore, this innings marked Maxwell’s fifth T20I century, equaling Rohit Sharma‘s record at the summit of the centurions list.