Maxwell on Thin Ice? Pujara Hints at Preferential Treatment
20 days ago | 5 Views
Cheteshwar Pujara, an experienced cricketer from India, along with former batting coach Sanjay Bangar, has openly criticized Glenn Maxwell for his dismal performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Maxwell is currently enduring a challenging phase in the tournament, having failed to accumulate even 100 runs over 16 matches across two IPL seasons with different franchises. Last year, after scoring only 32 runs in his first six matches for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, he requested a break from the team management. Upon his return to the playing XI, his performance did not significantly improve, as he managed to add just 21 runs in four additional matches.
Following his release from RCB, the Punjab Kings opted to re-sign Maxwell for ₹4.2 Crore during the mega auction. Despite entering this season of the IPL with promising form, his luck quickly turned sour once the tournament commenced.
In the current season, Maxwell has only managed to score 41 runs in six matches, averaging a mere 8.20, with his difficulties against spin bowling becoming increasingly evident.
Pujara remarked that Maxwell's batting style suggests a casual attitude. "His approach to batting hasn't evolved much," Pujara stated. "He hasn't altered his strategy for the IPL. There have been instances where he has appeared somewhat indifferent. He remains the same player he was eight to ten years ago. While I may sound critical, there are moments when a player needs to be more alert," Pujara commented during an appearance on ESPNCricinfo T20 Time Out.
The former India Test player emphasized that it is crucial for Maxwell to step up his game, as the patience of the Punjab Kings management may soon wear thin.
"You must recognize that you have the chance to play and be part of a franchise where significant stakes are involved. At times, players can become complacent and indifferent to their performance. I am certain he desires to excel, but when results are lacking, there is a delicate balance between being casual and making a concerted effort to improve. He needs to find that equilibrium."
‘Maxwell had cushion of Kohl;i and Faf in RCB’: Bangar
Former RCB coach Bangar, who has closely observed Maxwell, noted that his weaknesses were less noticeable at RCB due to the primary focus on Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis.
"It is challenging to understand Maxwell's performance consistency," Bangar remarked. "During his three years at RCB, he had several teammates who diverted attention from him, such as Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis. He was not the primary player the team relied on for extraordinary performances, yet he consistently delivered impactful contributions. In his new role at PBKS, he is batting lower in the order, but they still regard him as a key overseas player, which was not the case at RCB."
The former India all-rounder pointed out that Maxwell has appeared somewhat uncertain at the crease during this IPL season. "In the initial two to three matches, we witnessed a different Maxwell, as he attempted to attack the bowlers from the first ball," Bangar explained. "However, in the last two innings, he seemed more willing to settle in. Until he was dismissed by Varun Chakravarthy's googly in the previous match against KKR, he was taking his time and playing solid cricketing shots, including a back foot drive past point. Had he adopted this approach from the start, the pressure might not have been as intense. Now, it seems to be a matter of indecision. I doubt Punjab will be patient with him if they lose a couple of games, as that could jeopardize their season."
PBKS will be looking for Maxwell to regain his form in their upcoming IPL match against RCB on Friday.
