From big bucks to big disappointments: Why IPL teams keep backing Glenn Maxwell? Explained

Glenn Maxwell reunited Punjab Kings ahead of the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, the shift in base hasn't coincided with a change in fortunes as far as his batting performances are concerned. The all-rounder has produced some spectacular knocks for the Australian team in recent years. However, his IPL record in the last couple of years is an embodiment of mediocrity.

To put things in perspective, Maxwell scored 52 runs from 10 matches in IPL 2024. He was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of this year's mega auction. The 37-year-old was then roped in by Punjab Kings for INR 4.20 crore, which is a considerable amount in a mega-auction, especially for a player who has blown hot and cold in most of the seasons he has played in the glorious league.

Maxwell has been playing in the tournament since IPL 2012. He only missed the 2019 edition of the tournament. Leaving this edition aside, the Melbourne-born has played at least 10 matches in 10 out of the 12 seasons he has played in the cash-rich event. However, he has only had three seasons in which he has scored 400 runs and above.

Since IPL 2024, Maxwell has played 15 innings in the format and scored 100 runs at an abysmal average of 6.67. While he is renowned for his big hits and blistering batting approach, Maxwell has only managed a strike rate of 108.69 in this period. His numbers, however, for Australia in the shortest format since March 2024, are way better. He has scored 196 runs from eight innings at an average of 28.00 and a strike-rate of 148.48.

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So why do IPL teams keep persisting with Glenn Maxwell?

Players like Maxwell can instil fear in the opposition, even when they are down and out. One good innings can help him rediscover his lost touch in the IPL. RCB hoped for such a resurgence till last season, and PBKS are in the same position in the ongoing season. Despite his lean patch, captains tend to keep a couple of overs of their better bowlers in the bank, so that they can be used to send the stalwart packing. This kind of makes things easier for the other batters as they get to face bowlers who are not as threatening as the spearheads.

Another reason could be Maxwell's all-round abilities. Apart from being a gun fielder, even at the age of 37, Maxwell is much more than a part-time off-spinner. He has the uncanny knack of picking up important wickets and breaking partnerships. Last season, he bagged six wickets at an average of 21.50 and an economy rate of 8.06 in the IPL. In IPL 2025, he has accounted for four wickets, averaging 27.50 and conceding runs at an economy rate of 8.46.