Glenn Maxwell has crowned his ODI career with a stellar unbeaten 201 runs against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup, viewing it as the definitive moment of his illustrious journey in One Day Internationals.
On Monday, Maxwell announced his retirement from ODI cricket after representing Australia in 149 matches.
He has been recognised as a game-changing batsman, known for his explosive innings that could turn the tide of a match.
Glenn Maxwell celebrates his remarkable double century. Getty
In this match, Australia was in a dire situation at 7/91 while chasing 292 runs. It appeared that all hope was lost.
Despite enduring cramps and back spasms, Maxwell hammered the ball in Mumbai and kept Australia’s chances alive. At times, it seemed as though he might barely have the strength to stand, yet he continued to smash boundaries.
Reflecting on some of his career’s most memorable moments, Maxwell took particular delight in reminiscing about his extraordinary 128-ball innings of 201.
“I don’t think any moment could be more special when everything feels like it’s just meant to be,” Maxwell shared with SEN.
“It felt like everything fell into place at that moment; getting dropped a couple of times, things going my way, and finally being able to express everything I had to offer.
“When you add in the cramps and back spasms, and the significance of the match, it all came together for me to showcase my best. It was a moment I had dreamed of for my entire career.
“To have that one innings and to say that was it is something I never thought would happen, but I’m grateful it came in such a pivotal moment of a World Cup.”
Glenn Maxwell proudly displaying the World Cup trophy after Australia’s victory in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. ICC via Getty Images
Another cherished memory for Maxwell is the 2015 Cricket World Cup final held at the MCG.
“Aaron Finch and I were the two Victorians in the squad, and it was always a hope of ours to play in that final together,” he recalled.
“When we made it to the final, knowing that our families would be there, it felt like destiny.
“Few people have the chance to win a World Cup on home soil in front of their friends and family. We were truly lucky to experience that.
“The celebrations continued for several days. It was an incredible memory.”
“What a fantastic way to launch your ODI World Cup career with a victory at home.”
As he reflects on his career, Maxwell is content that he remained true to himself and played the game his way.
“I take pride in how I played the game, and I hope I’ve inspired some kids to take it up,” he expressed.
“I always aimed to play an exciting style of cricket, the kind that I would want to watch on television, and I hope I’ve succeeded in doing that for the next generation.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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