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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Mega Auction is set to bring significant changes to team rosters, as franchises aim to strengthen their squads while maintaining a solid core. One of the most talked-about players ahead of the auction is Glenn Maxwell, whose disappointing performance in IPL 2024 has raised questions about his future with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The Australian all-rounder, once considered a key player for RCB, could find himself released as the franchise looks to rebuild.
Glenn Maxwell’s underwhelming IPL 2024 season for RCB
Maxwell’s 2024 season with RCB was far from his best. The all-rounder struggled to find form, managing just 52 runs across 10 matches at a meager average of 5.78. While he contributed with six wickets, his economy rate of over 8 left much to be desired. Maxwell’s lackluster performance has sparked rumors that RCB might part ways with him ahead of the 2025 Mega Auction, particularly as the team seeks to end its 17-year trophy drought by forming a new core of players.
Speculation grows after Glenn Maxwell’s social media move
Adding fuel to the fire, Maxwell recently unfollowed RCB on Instagram, further intensifying speculation about his potential departure. While some might view this as a minor social media activity, it often signals a player’s intention to move on. Maxwell’s experience and skill set, however, still make him a valuable asset in the T20 format, and several IPL franchises could be eager to snap him up during the auction.
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3 Teams likely to pursue Maxwell ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction
Given his track record and versatility, Maxwell could attract significant interest from other franchises in the 2025 Mega Auction. Teams looking for a powerful middle-order batters and a handy bowler might see Maxwell as the perfect fit. Here are three teams that could potentially target Maxwell:
1. Chennai Super Kings: Seeking a versatile all-rounder and slogging power
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have traditionally been a team that values experience, versatility, and the ability to perform under pressure. Glenn Maxwell, known for his explosive batting and handy off-spin, fits perfectly into CSK’s blueprint for a successful IPL campaign.
- CSK’s home ground, the MA Chidambaram Stadium, is known for its spin-friendly nature, and Maxwell’s off-spin could be a valuable asset in complementing their spin attack led by Ravindra Jadeja. Moreover, Maxwell’s ability to accelerate in the death overs aligns with CSK’s need for a reliable finisher who can take on the opposition bowlers with ferocity.
- With MS Dhoni no longer aa captain, CSK might also value Maxwell’s leadership experience to help young Ruturaj Gaikwad, adding another layer to their pursuit. His inclusion would strengthen CSK’s middle order, providing a much-needed balance between aggression and stability, making him a prime target for the franchise.
2. Gujarat Titans: Bolstering middle-order firepower on flat tracks
- Gujarat Titans (GT), who have established themselves as a dominant force in the IPL with a balanced squad, could see Maxwell as the perfect addition to their middle order.
- The Titans’ home ground, the Narendra Modi Stadium, offers flat pitches that suit Maxwell’s aggressive style of play, enabling him to unleash his full range of strokes. With the uncertainty surrounding David Miller‘s up and down form in the upcoming seasons, Gujarat might look at Maxwell as a like-for-like replacement who can take on the finisher’s role with aplomb or someone who can provide much needed support to Miller.
- Maxwell’s ability to play spin and pace equally well makes him a valuable asset on the varied surfaces that IPL matches are played on. Additionally, his experience in international cricket, coupled with his all-round capabilities, would add depth to Gujarat’s batting line-up and provide a sixth bowling option, making him a strategic acquisition for the Titans.
3. Punjab Kings: Rekindling a partnership with a familiar face
- Punjab Kings (PBKS) have had a tumultuous history in the IPL, often struggling to find the right balance in their squad. Nevertheless, Maxwell’s previous stints with the franchise, where he played some of his most memorable knocks, could make PBKS keen on bringing him back into the fold.
- The team has often lacked experience and firepower in the middle order, a gap that Maxwell could fill seamlessly. His familiarity with the franchise and the conditions in Punjab, where the pitch tends to assist fast bowlers and batters, could be crucial in reviving Punjab’s fortunes.
- Moreover, Maxwell’s ability to handle pressure situations and his knack for playing match-winning innings could provide the stability and experience that PBKS desperately needs in their middle order. His off-spin could also serve as a valuable option in subcontinent conditions, adding depth to Punjab’s bowling attack. Reuniting with Maxwell might just be the spark that PBKS needs to mount a serious challenge for the IPL title.