Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has built an international career defined by audacious stroke play and match-winning counterattacks under extreme pressure. Whenever Australia found itself backed into a corner, Maxwell frequently produced moments of individual brilliance that altered the course of fixtures. Over the years, his bat has authored several remarkable innings that reshaped record books and left fielding sides completely helpless. Here is a comprehensive look back at five standout innings that defined his international journey, spanning World Cup glory, boundary blitzes, and tense run chases.
The Unbelievable Double Hundred Against Afghanistan in Mumbai
During the 2023 One-Day International World Cup clash against Afghanistan at the Wankhede Stadium, Maxwell delivered what is widely considered one of the most astonishing innings in limited-overs history. Chasing a target of 292 runs, Australia suffered a catastrophic top-order collapse. The side slumped to 49 for four and quickly crumbled to 91 for seven, leaving their hopes of qualification hanging by a thread and defeat looking all but certain.
Stepping up at this critical juncture, Maxwell launched an extraordinary counteroffensive. Severe physical cramps gripped his body as the innings progressed, reducing his mobility to the point where he could barely walk or use his footwork at the crease. Despite immense physical distress, he refused to retire hurt and relied purely on hand-eye coordination and core power. Teaming up with captain Pat Cummins, Maxwell put together an unbeaten 202-run partnership for the eighth wicket. He remained unbeaten on 201 runs off 128 deliveries, a knock decorated with 21 boundaries and 10 towering sixes. His heroic effort guided Australia to a three-wicket victory and made him the first Australian batter to score an ODI double century.
Setting a World Record T20 Total Against Sri Lanka in Pallekele
Back in 2016, during a bilateral tour against Sri Lanka, Maxwell displayed his destructive best in a Twenty20 International at Pallekele. Promoted to open the batting, he took the initiative from the opening delivery, dismantling the host nation's bowling attack with relentless hitting across all parts of the ground. The home bowlers struggled to find answers as boundaries flowed continuously from his blade.
Maxwell blazed his way to a century in just 49 balls. Even after reaching three figures, he showed no signs of slowing down, accumulating over 40 additional runs in his next 16 deliveries to finish unbeaten on 145 runs from 65 balls. The innings featured 14 boundaries and nine sixes. Fueled by this relentless assault, Australia posted a mammoth total of 263 runs for three wickets in their 20 overs, which established a new world record for the highest team total in men's T20 International cricket at that time. Australia went on to secure a commanding victory on the back of his performance.
Stealing a T20 Series Victory Against India in Bengaluru
In 2019, Maxwell produced a masterclass in aggressive chasing during the second T20 International against India at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Faced with a steep target of 191 runs to wrap up the series, Australia encountered early trouble when two key wickets fell with only 22 runs on the board. Arriving at the crease under immense scoreboard pressure, Maxwell instantly dictated terms to the Indian bowlers.
Deploying his complete repertoire of 360-degree shots, he manipulated the field with reverse sweeps, scoops, and powerful drives that left the home side without answers. Maxwell compiled an unbeaten 113 runs off just 55 deliveries, hammering seven fours and nine sixes. His composure and boundary-hitting prowess steered Australia across the finish line with two balls to spare, sealing a memorable T20 series triumph on Indian soil.
Last-Over Drama in His 100th T20 International at Guwahati
Another chapter in Maxwell's rivalry with India unfolded in 2023 at Guwahati, a match that marked his milestone 100th T20 International appearance. India had set a formidable target after piling up 222 runs for the loss of three wickets in their innings. Chasing such a massive score required an exceptional individual contribution, and Maxwell once again shouldered the burden.
He attacked the Indian bowling unit from the outset, reaching his century in only 47 deliveries. In total, he amassed an unbeaten 104 runs from 48 balls, striking eight boundaries and eight sixes along the way. The climax arrived in the dramatic final over, with Australia needing 21 runs for victory. Maxwell held his nerve to strike four consecutive boundaries off the final four deliveries, snatching an improbable triumph from the jaws of defeat.
The Record 212-Run Sixth Wicket Rescue in Manchester
In the deciding match of the 2020 One-Day International series against England at Old Trafford in Manchester, Maxwell showcased his ability to rebuild under immense match pressure. Chasing 303 runs for a series win, Australia found themselves in dire straits after losing their top order, collapsing to 73 for five. Wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey joined Maxwell at the crease with the match seemingly slipping away.
Rather than retreating, the pair executed a calculated counterattack against England's frontline pacers and spinners. Maxwell struck 108 runs from 90 deliveries, hitting seven fours and four sixes, while Carey contributed a fine 106. Together, they forged a sensational 212-run stand for the sixth wicket, which became Australia's highest-ever partnership for that wicket in ODI history. This record-setting partnership completed a dramatic rescue and earned Australia a decisive series victory.
