Glenn Maxwell breaks leg in freak accident at a party

Glenn Maxwell is expected to be sidelined for around three months after breaking his leg at a party on Saturday. This is how it happened.

An ambitious plan to revive Glenn Maxwell’s Test career in India next year has exploded on the tarmac after he sustained a broken leg in a freak party accident.

Maxwell is expected to be sidelined for about three months after breaking his leg at a party in Melbourne on Saturday.

Maxwell was attending the 50th birthday party of a friend and both fell when they were running in the backyard and Maxwell’s left leg became trapped under the party host.

Sean Abbott has been rushed into Australia’s white ball squad for three 50 overs games against England after Maxwell was ruled out following surgery on Sunday.

He went to hospital immediately after the accident and stayed there on Saturday and Sunday nights.

It is understood Maxwell was not intoxicated and the accident happened early in the evening. Chairman of selectors George Bailey said:” Glenn is in good spirits. It was an unfortunate accident and we feel for Glenn in the circumstances given he was in great touch in the last few games.

“Glenn is a critical part of our white ball structure and we will continue to support him through his recovery.’’

Glenn Maxwell faces a long recovery from a broken leg. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

Maxwell played the last of his seven Tests five years ago and has not played a first-class game for three years.

But there has been speculation he could return to the Sheffield Shield ranks this season en route to selection in Australia’s squad for four heavy duty Tests against India.

But that plan now seems likely to be abandoned given the first Test in Pune starts on February 23.

Maxwell has had a controversial month. Following Australia’s surprise exit before the World Cup semi-finals he gave an interview in which he claimed the team would move on quickly after the result, not the responses suffering fans were hoping to hear.

He did find form late in the World Cup but it was speculated his status as an automatic selection in the Australian team had been under review during the tournament.

Maxwell’s injury is also a major blow to the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash, particularly in a season in which the competition is looking to put its best foot forward for the new television rights deal.

Cricket Australia is desperate for as many major drawcards as possible to be playing the BBL as it negotiates with four television networks.

“Glenn is obviously a huge part of the Melbourne Stars and we wish him well in his recovery,’’ Stars general manager Blair Crouch said.

“He will continue to be a key part of the club during the start of the season and he works his way back to full fitness and we look forward to seeing him soon.’’