On This Day: One of the greatest ODI knocks played by Glenn Maxwell
On this day in 2023, Glenn Maxwell played an unforgettable innings against Afghanistan in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, delivering what many cricket fans and experts consider one of the greatest ODI performances ever. Chasing a target of 292, Australia found themselves in dire straits at 91/7. However, Maxwell turned the game on its head, scoring a sensational double-century, ultimately finishing with an unbeaten 201 off just 128 balls. His ability to stay at the crease while suffering from severe cramps—and even standing almost stationary due to his pain—was a testament to his skill and determination.
Maxwell’s knock included 21 fours and 10 sixes, as he shifted gears to dominate the Afghan bowling attack. Despite being visibly hampered by cramps and struggling to run, he relied on sheer power, often opting to hit boundaries instead of running between the wickets. This solo effort was crucial for Australia, as he batted alongside Pat Cummins, who played a crucial, though quiet, supporting role with a patient 12 runs from 68 balls.
Afghanistan, led by Ibrahim Zadran’s century, posted their highest-ever World Cup score and appeared set for a famous victory. But dropped catches and missed opportunities gave Maxwell the opportunities he needed to execute this incredible chase. His innings not only secured Australia a place in the semi-finals but also etched his name into World Cup history for an innings that was as courageous as it was skillful.
Maxwell’s monumental innings are celebrated as a career-defining performance, showcasing his mental resilience and physical endurance. His knock was filled with audacious shots under extreme physical limitations, making it one of the most dramatic individual efforts in recent World Cup memory, especially against a well-fought Afghan side that came agonizingly close to a major upset
