In Bengaluru, the clash between RCB and SRH on Monday promised a run-fest tailor-made for someone of Glenn Maxwell’s caliber. Just over five months prior, Maxwell had showcased his explosive prowess with one of cricket’s most unforgettable innings during the World Cup 2023 against Afghanistan. However, despite the potential for fireworks, Maxwell found himself sidelined amidst a challenging IPL season, where his performances failed to meet expectations.
Nevertheless, the match between RCB and SRH turned out to be a spectacle in its own right, etching its name in the annals of T20 history. A staggering total of 549 runs were amassed throughout the game, marking the highest aggregate ever recorded in a T20 match. SRH, in particular, made headlines by surpassing their own record for the highest IPL total, posting a formidable 287/3. This impressive feat eclipsed their previous record of 277/3 set against MI just three weeks prior.
Yet, RCB refused to be outdone, showcasing resilience and determination as they embarked on an extraordinary chase. Their spirited performance culminated in the establishment of a new milestone in T20 cricket – the highest total ever recorded in a chase, with RCB finishing at 262/7. Despite Maxwell’s absence, the clash between these two southern rivals proved to be a riveting display of skill and excitement, leaving spectators in awe and cementing its place as a match to be remembered.
Glenn Maxwell found himself absent from the thrilling action on the field
Maxwell found himself absent from the thrilling action on the field, revealing to reporters after the epic encounter that he had made the decision to sit out the game voluntarily. Speaking candidly during the post-match press conference, he disclosed that he had approached the RCB management to request being dropped from the lineup, citing the need for a mental and physical break.
“After the initial games didn’t unfold as I had hoped personally, the decision was quite straightforward,” Maxwell explained. “I approached Faf and the coaching staff before the last game and expressed that it might be time to explore other options. Having been in similar situations before, I understand the risk of persisting and potentially digging oneself into a deeper hole. Taking a break now seemed like the best course of action for both my mental and physical well-being.”
Maxwell’s absence mirrored his lackluster performance this season, with scores of 0, 3, 28, 0, 1, and 0, contributing to RCB’s struggles in the middle order. The team’s fifth consecutive loss in this IPL season further underscored the impact of Maxwell’s form on their fortunes.
Maxwell elaborated on his decision, emphasizing that it was influenced by the team’s underwhelming performance this season. “Given our lackluster results, it was a straightforward choice,” he admitted. “As a team, we haven’t hit the mark we aimed for, and the standings reflect that. My personal form has mirrored our struggles, particularly in the crucial phases post-powerplay and during the middle overs, where I’ve traditionally been strong in past seasons.”
Feeling he wasn’t making a positive impact, Maxwell recognized the need for change, stating, “I felt I wasn’t adding value to the team, especially considering our current position in the table. It seemed fitting to offer someone else the opportunity to step up and make a difference.”
Despite stepping back, Maxwell left the door open for a potential return, affirming, “If the team requires my services again, I’ll be ready to contribute.”
Maxwell expressed his readiness to rejoin the tournament if needed, highlighting the importance of regaining a strong mental and physical state to make a meaningful contribution to RCB.
Meanwhile, RCB’s defeat marked their sixth loss in IPL 2024, leaving them rooted at the bottom of the table with just two points from seven matches. In contrast, SRH’s victory propelled them to fourth place, securing their fourth win in six games.
