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Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who has been with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since 2021, was notably not retained for the 2025 IPL season. Despite being a key player in RCB’s middle order during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Maxwell’s inconsistent performances over the past few seasons, particularly in 2024, led to the franchise’s decision to release him. RCB chose to retain Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal instead, overlooking Maxwell, who was acquired for Rs 14.25 crore in 2021.
Glenn Maxwell: Inconsistent IPL performances for RCB
Maxwell’s IPL journey with RCB has been a mix of brilliance and frustration. In 52 matches, he scored 1,266 runs, including 12 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to play destructive knocks. However, his 2024 campaign was disastrous. He managed only 52 runs in 10 matches, averaging a paltry 5.78. His inability to contribute effectively with the bat in a season where RCB struggled to find form may have influenced the franchise’s decision. Additionally, Maxwell’s bowling, which had been a useful option in previous seasons, was lackluster in 2024. He took six wickets but leaked runs at an economy rate of over 8.
Success and failure with Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Despite his poor 2024 season, Maxwell had been a vital cog in RCB’s middle-order in previous years. Alongside Kohli and AB de Villiers, Maxwell formed a dangerous trio that propelled RCB’s batting line-up in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. His aggressive style of play and match-winning abilities made him an integral part of RCB’s setup.
Nevertheless he failed to repeat the magic in the 2024 edition for the same franchise. Maxwell lacked his usual natural instinct, failing to score runs when his team needed it most. In his 10 appearances, he managed only 52 runs, averaging a mere 5.78, highlighting his struggles with consistency. While Maxwell’s primary role in the IPL is with the bat, he also provides valuable contributions with the ball. Nonetheless, his bowling performance in 2024 was far from effective. He took six wickets, but his economy rate soared above 8, indicating his inability to control the flow of runs.
Also READ: Glenn Maxwell speaks out on RCB’s decision not to retain him for IPL 2025
Future prospects in IPL 2025 mega auction
Despite his underwhelming 2024 campaign, Maxwell’s experience and proven credentials in T20 cricket ensure that he will be in demand during the IPL 2025 mega auction. Teams will look past his recent form and focus on his ability to deliver explosive innings and provide valuable contributions with the ball. Maxwell’s all-round capabilities, leadership qualities, and his pedigree in international cricket make him a strong candidate for franchises looking to add depth to their squads. He will likely fetch significant attention from multiple teams during the auction, with the hope that he can recapture the form that made him one of the most sought-after players in the IPL.
3 teams who can target Glenn Maxwell in the IPL 2025 mega auction
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK): A Perfect Fit for Maxwell’s Versatility
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with their emphasis on experience and all-round skills, could greatly benefit from Maxwell’s inclusion in their squad. The five-time IPL champions have always valued players who can contribute in multiple departments, and Maxwell’s explosive batting and handy off-spin make him an ideal addition. His off-spin could be particularly useful on the spin-friendly tracks at Chepauk, where CSK plays its home matches. Maxwell’s ability to perform under pressure aligns well with CSK’s philosophy, and his experience would complement their core group, adding depth to both the batting and bowling units.
2. Punjab Kings (PBKS): A Potential Reunion
Maxwell has a rich history with Punjab Kings (PBKS), having represented the franchise for four seasons since 2014 before making a brief return in 2020. Known for his match-winning capabilities, he played some of his most memorable knocks while with PBKS, which makes a potential reunion a compelling prospect. PBKS, who have often struggled to find balance in their squad, are likely to target Maxwell as a valuable all-rounder. His experience in the IPL, combined with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, could be just what PBKS need to strengthen their middle order and provide stability in key moments.
3. Delhi Capitals (DC): A Smart Move for the Future
Delhi Capitals (DC) are looking to build a well-rounded team for the upcoming IPL seasons, and Maxwell could be the ideal acquisition to bolster their squad. With his ability to take matches away with his batting and contribute as a handy bowler, Maxwell offers versatility that DC could leverage. His match-winning potential makes him a strong candidate to strengthen the team’s middle order, and DC could certainly benefit from Maxwell’s proven credentials in the shortest format. Acquiring Maxwell in the mega auction could be a strategic and profitable move for DC, as they aim to push for a title in the near future.
