Glenn Maxwell ruled out: Matthew Wade replaces him for the South Africa T20Is
Australian cricket all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is ruled out of the upcoming South Africa white-ball series due to a sudden ankle injury, Metthew Wade replaces. This blow comes right before the highly-anticipated ODI World Cup 2023, scheduled to take place in India this October and November.
The Impact of Maxwell’s Absence
Australia will miss Maxwell, particularly since he has been out of action since the T20 World Cup 2022 due to a leg fracture. Cricket Australia confirmed that the 34-year-old Victorian sustained a minor ankle injury during initial team training in Durban. Previously, Maxwell had already been slated to miss the ODI series against South Africa owing to paternity leave.
Australia’s Shaken Squad
In a further blow to the team, other key players including Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Cameron Green, and David Warner will also be absent from the T20 leg of the South Africa tour.
Australia to Save Maxwell for ODI World Cup 2023
National selector Tony Dodemaide stated
National Selector“We are adopting a precautionary approach with Glenn, especially since he was scheduled to return home next week. We aim to have him available for the three-match ODI series in India, ahead of the World Cup.”
Maxwell had initially planned to return to Australia after the three-match T20I series for the birth of his first child. However, an ankle injury sustained during a training session has forced his withdrawal.
Matthew Wade Steps In
In light of Maxwell’s absence, wicket-keeper batter Matthew Wade has been called up to Australia’s T20 squad. Wade, who debuted internationally in 2011, was part of Australia’s victorious 2021 T20 World Cup team and recently captained a T20I match, securing a win over Afghanistan.
Tony DodemaideTony Dodemaide commented on Wade’s inclusion, stating, “Wade is a world-class performer who is fit and ready, especially after fulfilling his commitments with the London Spirit in The Hundred.”
Australia’s Squad for South Africa Tour
The squad heading to South Africa includes Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matt Short, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Matthew Wade, and Adam Zampa.
Final Thoughts
Glenn Maxwell ruled out of the South Africa series raises questions about Australia’s preparedness for the WC 2023. Will Maxwell’s recovery timeline align with the World Cup schedule? How will Australia cope without several of its star players? Only time will tell.
19:30 IST
