Australian big-hitter Glenn Maxwell has attributed his inconsistent run in the IPL over eight seasons to frequent changes in his role, something that is very clear to him when playing for his country.
Speaking to PTI, the Victorian explained why he has realised his potential while playing for Australia and the reason for his inconsistent run in the IPL.
“I probably would not (compare IPL and Australia career). The way I have played international cricket, it has been more of a clearer role. I know exactly how the guys will bat around me,” he said.
Having overcome mental health issues last year, it seems Maxwell is back to his best in international cricket. However, the same can’t be said about his IPL performances — he has scored 58 runs at 14.50 in seven games so far.
Due to his exploits for Australia, Maxwell has always been sought after in the IPL and most recently KXIP bought him back by paying a whopping Rs 10.75 crore at the auction.
“My role in IPL changes probably for most games. In IPL, a lot of teams change their sides a lot. In the Australian set-up we have the same eleven for most of the games, we all know our roles really well,” said Maxwell.
He is batting at five for KXIP this season and said his role is to support the top-four.
“When you are only together for two months in the year with IPL, there is going to be chopping and changing. You are always looking for that right team balance. The team you pick at the start of the tournament might not have the balance you think as you progress.
“We feel we are getting closer to that (team balance). I have had different experiences (in the IPL) where I have not quite performed to the level people expect but there has been no lack of trying, (or) putting the effort in training.”
With the top-four facing most of the balls, Maxwell feels he has not got enough time in the middle to make an impact. On the bowling front, he has got the opportunity to roll his arm over only thrice in seven games
“This year has been a different role (batting at five) and I am trying to get used to it. I would like to think that I have tried to do my role as well as I can.
“We have got Nicky (Nicholas Pooran) batting unbelievably well at four. With his power-hitting, my job has been to get him on strike and be there to help finish off games.
“I have been not out four times (three actually) in seven games which is probably never happened to me in the history of my career. So, it has been a strange transition for me batting at five and one that I feel, I have started to become more accustomed to.”