In a remarkable turn of events, Glenn Maxwell produced one of the most astonishing one-day innings in cricket history, rescuing Australia from the brink of defeat against Afghanistan and steering them to a thrilling victory by three wickets in Mumbai.
Chasing a daunting target of 292, Australia’s hopes seemed dashed when they were reduced to 91 for seven. However, Maxwell, aided by a dropped catch and some careless fielding from Afghanistan, unleashed a whirlwind of sixes and boundaries to bring Australia back into the game.
Maxwell’s partner in crime, Pat Cummins, also played a crucial role, forming an unbeaten eighth-wicket partnership of 202 that ultimately sealed Australia’s victory.
Maxwell’s innings was nothing short of extraordinary. He survived a dropped catch and successfully overturned an lbw decision before seemingly taking these near misses as a sign to go on the offensive.
Despite battling a back injury that hampered his running ability, Maxwell defied the odds, hitting eight sixes to surpass Shane Watson’s previous record for the highest individual one-day international innings by an Australian man.
Maxwell’s final six, over deep midwicket, sealed Australia’s victory with 19 balls to spare, much to the delight of the Australian team and supporters.
After his epic innings, Maxwell admitted feeling “shocked” but remained proud of his performance. “I was fortunate, and I suppose just made the most of that,” he said.
Australia’s victory was a remarkable comeback after Afghanistan had posted a competitive total of 291 for five, thanks to an unbeaten century from Ibrahim Zadran.
Afghanistan’s bowlers had dismissed every other Australian specialist batter for under 25 runs apiece, but they had no answer for Maxwell’s onslaught.
Maxwell’s innings will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most remarkable one-day innings ever played. His ability to single-handedly rescue Australia from defeat under immense pressure was awe-inspiring.