Glenn Maxwell’s T20 spot never under threat after frustrating World Cup

Glenn Maxwell’s frustrating World Cup had no impact on his Twenty20 selection and the electrifying all-rounder is still regarded as a key weapon for Australia.

Glenn Maxwell had a hit at the season launch in Glenelg. Picture: Getty Images

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Glenn Maxwell’s frustrating World Cup had no impact on his Twenty20 selection with the electrifying all-rounder still regarded as a key weapon 12 months out from the T20 showpiece tournament.

While the Victorian did not post a half-century or take a wicket from 10 games in England, Maxwell did play some selfless roles. His strike-rate of 150 was easily the best in the tournament.

Maxwell, 31, will bat in the top order against Sri Lanka at Adelaide Oval on Sunday as Australia plays the first of 21 T20s leading into the 2020 home World Cup.

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Glenn Maxwell remains a key member of the Australian top order. Picture: Getty Images

“He gives you so many options,” captain Aaron Finch told the Herald Sun. “If you get off to a good start you might slide him down slightly to really do some maximum damage through that middle part of the game, because if he’s still in at the end he’ll score heavily.

“Or he can bat at No.3. I might bat at No.4 and he might open the batting – you just never know you can go either way.

“(He also gives you) some overs with the ball, (and he’s) unbelievable in the field.

“There was never any question for me about his position. His T20 international record – especially at the top of the order – is unbelievable really.

Glenn Maxwell’s versatility is vital in the T20 arena. Picture: Getty Images

“When he gets on a roll he can destroy any attack in the world. That’s what’s so exciting and it’s also so frustrating sometimes, because you know how good his best is.”

Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis were almost dropped for Australia’s World Cup semi-final against England but while selectors stuck with their misfiring all-rounders, Stoinis was overlooked for the T20 squad.

But Maxwell – who captained Melbourne Stars to this year’s Big Bash final – remains safe in cricket’s shortest form.

“Maxwell might average 20 too, but if he saves 15 in the field then he’s averaging 35 for the day,” Finch said. “The ability to change a game in the field is important.”

Originally published as Glenn Maxwell’s T20 spot never under threat after frustrating World Cup