Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed his confidence in Glenn Maxwell‘s ability to perform for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Akram emphasized that Maxwell thrives in high-stakes matches and highlighted the competitive nature of Australian players. He believes Maxwell’s big-match temperament will be a significant asset for RCB as they aim for success in the playoffs. Akram’s endorsement underscores Maxwell’s reputation for rising to the occasion in crucial games.
Glenn Maxwell’s Performance in IPL 2024:
In the last league game against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Glenn Maxwell contributed 16 runs off just five balls, aiding in setting a target of over 200. Despite this brief burst of scoring, Maxwell’s overall performance with the bat has been underwhelming, accumulating only 52 runs across nine matches with an average of 6.50. However, he has shown some effectiveness with the ball, taking six wickets at an economy rate of 8.06. This highlights Maxwell’s mixed contributions this season, offering occasional sparks with the bat while maintaining a steady presence as a bowler.
Wasim Akram About Maxwell:
The legendary all-rounder Wasim Akram also reminded viewers of Maxwell’s remarkable performance in the ODI World Cup, where he scored a double century to lead Australia to victory over Afghanistan. This incredible feat showcased Maxwell’s ability to single-handedly change the course of a game, reinforcing his reputation as a clutch player in critical moments.
He said, “High risk, high reward. Glenn Maxwell will single-handedly win a knockout match for RCB. You have to stay calm with him in the dressing room. I know it’s frustrating. It must be frustrating for him as well.”
He further said, “I know how Australians and especially Maxwell, how competitive he is and how much he wants to be successful. Remember his innings in the World Cup against Afghanistan, had cramps, couldn’t walk, played with one hand, and went on to score 200.”
Wasim Akram Praises RCB’s Performance:
Wasim Akram also praised RCB for their resilient performance against five-time champions CSK to secure a spot in the top four of IPL 2024. He considered it one of the finest matches in IPL history. Akram lauded the team’s display of character and determination, highlighting their exceptional effort in such a crucial game.
He said, “It was virtually kind of like a quarterfinal. Ise kehte hain jab kismat ki devi meharbaan ho, jab apko apnea ap mein belief ho team pe. (When fortune favors you and you have self-belief, then you tend to achieve the impossible).”
He continued, “Even I had said that qualifying is not only tough but impossible. They have proved everyone wrong. It’s an incredible story for RCB. That game will be written in the history of IPL.”
He added, “ We thought CSK would easily enter into the top 4 and it’ll be a fairytale ending for MS Dhoni. But again, uparwale ne kuch mana hua tha, kuch aur likha hua tha. Uparwala bhi unki help karta hai to khud ki help karte hain. (However, the almighty had written something else. Even God helps those who help themselves). There is a lesson to be learned from this RCB qualification. Luck favors the brave, never lose hope.”
RCB Will Face RR in Eliminator:
Faf du Plessis and his team are set to face off against Sanju Samson’s Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2024 Eliminator. The high-stakes match will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 22. Both teams will be eager to secure a victory to keep their championship hopes alive, making this an exciting and crucial encounter in the tournament. As the competition intensifies, fans can expect a thrilling showdown between these two formidable sides in the quest for IPL glory.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram