Glenn Maxwell's Explosive T20 Performance Sparks IPL 2025 Bidding Frenzy

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — In a thrilling display of power-hitting, Glenn Maxwell's blistering 43 off just 19 deliveries propelled Australia to a commanding 29-run victory over Pakistan in the rain-curtailed first T20 International on Thursday. The match, held at Brisbane, was reduced to a mere seven overs per side following a nearly three-hour delay caused by lightning and rain.

Opting to bat first, Maxwell wasted no time in making his intentions clear, as he took on Pakistan's pace attack with audacious shots. His innings featured three towering sixes and five boundaries, exploiting the pace of Haris Rauf (1-21) and Naseem Shah (1-37) with deft lap shots to third man. Australia posted a formidable total of 93-4, setting a daunting target for the visitors.

Pakistan's chase faltered right from the start, collapsing to 16-5 within the first 15 balls, thanks to incisive bowling by Nathan Ellis (3-9) and Xavier Bartlett (3-13). Despite a valiant unbeaten 20 from No. 8 batsman Abbas Afridi, Pakistan could only muster 64-9 by the end of their innings.

Reflecting on his performance, Maxwell expressed satisfaction with the team's effort: “Certainly had a lot of fun out there. We thought we had enough on the board … the bowlers did a great job. There was a few of us who had packed our bags expecting the game to be called off, so it was a mad rush to get ready.”

Maxwell's innings was particularly noteworthy given his recent form, following scores of 0, 16, 0 in the preceding ODI series, which Pakistan won 2-1. His resurgence with the bat is likely to reignite interest in him during the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, especially since Royal Challengers Bengaluru released him from their roster.

The match also saw Marcus Stoinis contribute a quickfire 21 not out from seven balls, including two fours and a six in the final over bowled by Naseem Shah, adding crucial runs to Australia's tally.

With the IPL 2025 auction on the horizon, Maxwell's latest heroics are expected to trigger a competitive bidding war among franchises eager to secure his services. His ability to perform under pressure and his knack for turning games around makes him a coveted asset in the T20 format.