Australia’s versatile cricketer, Glenn Maxwell, has revealed his decision to step back from Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) recent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), citing the need for a “mental and physical break” after a challenging start to his IPL 2024 season.
Speaking at a press conference following RCB’s 25-run loss to SRH, Maxwell shared that he had approached captain Faf du Plessis and the coaching staff, expressing his belief that giving someone else an opportunity could be beneficial. Despite his struggles, Maxwell remains confident in his ability to contribute positively to RCB if called upon later in the season.
Acknowledging his lackluster performance, Maxwell, 35, acknowledged his recent form, managing only 32 runs across six innings, including three ducks. This has contributed to RCB’s position at the bottom of the standings with just one win.
Maxwell, who entered IPL 2024 on a high note after impressive performances in T20 internationals and the ODI World Cup, attributed his recent struggles to the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and sticking to the basics despite challenges.
Reflecting on his decision to take a break, Maxwell admitted that he realized during the game against SRH that the pitch conditions were favorable for batting. However, he stressed the importance of prioritizing both his physical and mental well-being to perform at his best in professional cricket.
Maxwell’s tenure with RCB has been notable, with three successful seasons behind him. He amassed significant runs in previous seasons, showcasing his prowess as a dynamic player.
In hindsight, Maxwell acknowledged the difficulty of missing out on a potentially advantageous match but reiterated the importance of self-care and readiness to perform at the highest level.